LARIMER COUNTY, Colo. (KDVR) — Newly released images from an unsealed affidavit are raising fresh questions about the man accused of starting the 2024 Alexander Mountain Fire — a wildfire that burned nearly 10,000 acres, destroyed dozens of homes and forced mass evacuations across Larimer County.
The affidavit offers the most detailed look yet at what investigators say happened on Alexander Mountain. Among the evidence documented at the suspected origin area: a fire pit and a men’s boot print located where investigators believe the blaze began.
Photos show suspect in fire gear, “Ranger”-marked vehicles
The affidavit also includes photos of the suspect, Jason Hobby, wearing fire gear and driving vehicles marked with “FIRE” and “RANGER” decals. Hobby has pleaded not guilty to charges of first-degree arson of an occupied structure, two counts of impersonating a peace officer, felony menacing with a real/simulated weapon, false imprisonment by force for over 12 hours and impersonating a public servant.
Investigators say Hobby posed as a “self-proclaimed fire manager”, inserted himself into the emergency response, and drove through roadblocks as crews worked to contain the fast-moving wildfire…