On Friday, September 5, 2025, at approximately 1:00 PM, deputies and fire crews responded to the area of Hummingbird Lane and Bunting Road on Bly Mountain for a reported brush fire.
Fire crews from Klamath County Fire District 5 and the Oregon Department of Forestry quickly began suppression efforts and were able to stop the forward spread of the fire before it reached nearby residences.
During the investigation, a victim who witnessed and reported a suspect intentionally set multiple fires in the area using gasoline and a flare gun. Evidence was collected at the scene, including a gasoline container and burned materials. In total, six fires were identified, four on the suspect’s property and two on the victim’s property. These fires posed a significant threat to nearby homes and residents given the dry fuels, steep terrain, and windy conditions.
On September 6, 2025, deputies located the suspect, Henry J. Garza, 37 years old of Bly Mountain, during a follow-up investigation. The suspect was arrested without incident and transported to the Klamath County Jail. The suspect was lodged on multiple charges including three counts of Arson I, two counts of Reckless Endangering, Menacing, and Coercion.
No injuries were reported, and fire crews successfully contained the incident. The case remains under active investigation in coordination with fire investigators.
We want to thank Klamath County Fire District 5, the Oregon Department of Forestry, and all first responders for their quick action in preventing further spread. Wildfire danger remains extremely high in our area. Please remain vigilant and report any suspicious fire activity immediately by calling 911.
