Hunter blamed for California wildfire

The US Forest Service has said a gigantic wildfire near Yosemite National Park in California began when a hunter allowed an illegal fire to escape.

The Forest Service added there is no indication the hunter was involved with illegal marijuana cultivation, which a local fire chief had speculated as the possible cause of blaze.

No arrests have been made, and the hunter’s name is being withheld pending further investigation.

The Rim Fire began on August 17th and threatened thousands of homes. It is now 80 per cent contained.

AP