Chariot Fire Caused by BLM Jeep Wrangler: Cal Fire

Around 120 buildings were destroyed or damaged in the fire that prompted evacuations

A brush fire that scorched more than 7,000 acres on Mount Laguna last summer was sparked by a government vehicle, according to Cal Fire.

The Chariot Fire was started July 6 by a Jeep Wrangler owned and operated by the Bureau of Land Management, officials said.

The Cal Fire report released Friday said the SUV ignited the dry vegetation.

Around 120 buildings were destroyed or damaged in the fire that prompted evacuations for residents along Sunrise Highway.

El Prado, Horse Heaven and Laguna Campgrounds were evacuated, as well as the Al Bahr Shrine Camp and the Foster Lodge.

Al Bahr Shriners camp took a direct hit from the fire with reports of propane tanks exploding on the property.

The camp lost a total of 23 buildings to the fire, including a 99-year-old lodge.

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