News - Man sets 7,000-acre forest fire trying to cremate his dog

A Montrose County, Colorado man faces criminal charges after he allegedly started a wildfire that burned more than 7,000 acres in an attempt to cremate his dog. Local ABC radio station in Grand Junction, Colorado, reports court documents show Brent Garber, 63, was charged on Aug. 1, 2024, and is now facing two counts of arson and second-degree criminal mischief; The Buck Tail Fire was one of Colorado's largest wildfires this year. The Montrose Sheriff's Office said the blaze had burned 7,202 acres and was 80% contained by Wednesday with the help of more than 100 firefighters. According to media reports, Garber allegedly tried to organize the funeral of his dog named Roque in the yard. Investigators found a stone on which was written: "October 2017 - July 2024." Dog Rocket. Rest in peace my friend." Garber allegedly put her dog in a pit with pieces of wood before setting them on fire.