SANTA CRUZ COUNTY (BCN) — A 27-year-old man has been arrested in connection with an illegal marijuana grow that allegedly sparked a wildfire near Los Gatos.
Hunter Pendleton was arrested on suspicion of cultivation of an illegal 300 plant marijuana grow after Cal Fire responded to a wildfire in the 15000 block of Bear Canyon Road Wednesday night, according to the Santa Cruz Sheriff’s Office.
The fire burned more than three acres.
The origin of the fire was a generator that was used for marijuana cultivation in Pendleton’s home, according to the sheriff’s office.
The fire spread to the home and then caused a wildfire that threatened nearby residences.
Deputies helped homeowners evacuate and blocked off traffic on Bear Creek Road until the fire was contained by firefighters.