Story perspectives

Man Arrested for Igniting Gann Fire, 10,300-Acre Blaze Kills One

8/8/2026

Summary

Story summary

U.S. authorities arrested Herbert Wayne Smith for allegedly starting the Gann Fire in California.
The blaze burned 10,300 acres and was 40% contained Friday.
It destroyed seven structures and claimed its first fatality when 70-year-old Susan Solari was found dead in a burned home on Jaquima Drive near Angels Camp.
Governor Gavin Newsom secured a federal grant and deployed 67 crews, 2,700 firefighters and 12 helicopters while evacuation orders remained.

History

Historical Context

Since the 1923 Berkeley blaze, the Oakland-Berkeley hills have faced repeated wildfires, culminating in the 1991 Tunnel Fire that burned 1,520 acres, killed 25 people and triggered a 107-alarm response with 1,500 personnel. Decades of longer fire seasons and Diablo winds, amplified by climate change, set the stage for the 2024 Gann Fire, where Governor Gavin Newsom deployed 2,700 firefighters and 12 helicopters.

1 of 2

Story summary

U.S. authorities arrested Herbert Wayne Smith for allegedly starting the Gann Fire in California.
The blaze burned 10,300 acres and was 40% contained Friday.
It destroyed seven structures and claimed its first fatality when 70-year-old Susan Solari was found dead in a burned home on Jaquima Drive near Angels Camp.
Governor Gavin Newsom secured a federal grant and deployed 67 crews, 2,700 firefighters and 12 helicopters while evacuation orders remained.

1 / 2