Investigators Making Progress Finding Black Forest Fire Cause

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (CBS4) - Investigators say they are making progress into what caused the Black Forest Fire that destroyed more than 500 and was responsible for the deaths of two people.

The El Paso County Sheriff's Department on Wednesday issued a release on its investigation into the cause of the most destructive wildfire in Colorado history. It says they have made great progress, but does not cite any specific factor that caused the fire.

The report indicates that investigators have not found any signs of an accelerant, which could indicate arson. However, that is not totally being ruled out.

The fire broke out June 11 in the early afternoon and spread quickly. Hot temperatures and high winds fed the blaze through Black Forest. The two people killed were a couple that worked at Schriever Air Force Base. They were apparently trying to leave, but did not get out in time.

The origin of the fire was determined to be in an area just off of Schoup Road near Falcon Drive and Peregrine Way. Investigators have focused their attention to that area.

Investigators searched a home the area on Falcon Drive. It had a bit of fire damage, but it appeared that the blaze spread to the north and east from there.

The El Paso Sheriff's Department says it is considering any number of intentional or accidental causes to the fire, such as sparks from machinery or hot components on motors.

Search warrants have been executed but no details are being released at this time.

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