The Brief
- Michael Yakimov, 18, is accused of helping start the deadly Chelan Hills Fire with illegal fireworks on July 4.
- Yakimov’s family says they don’t believe he started the fire and want others allegedly involved to also be held accountable.
- Investigators say as many as five other people could be involved as the investigation continues.
Douglas County, wash. – Some of Michael Yakimov’s family and friends are speaking out after the Douglas County Sheriff named the 18-year-old as a suspect in the Chelan Hills Fire.
The teen is accused of sparking the wildfire with illegal fireworks, which burned 10,000 acres and killed one person. His mom and younger brother spoke, with his mom’s permission, to FOX 13’s Jennifer Dowling following his court appearance on Thursday.
His family says they don’t believe that Michael actually started the fire, adding that other people who were allegedly involved should be held accountable as well.
Family speaks out
Michael Yakimov’s younger brother Moses says he’s missing his big brother as the 18-year-old sits behind bars.…