Douglas County Commissioners Provide Update on McNeil Canyon Road Closure and Announce $25,000 Reward

DOUGLAS COUNTY, WA-The Douglas County Board of Commissioners understands the concerns that have been raised regarding the on-going closure of McNeil Canyon Road in response to the Chelan Hills Acres Fire.  Although the Chelan Hills Acres Fire has reached 75% containment, there are numerous continuing emergency operations occurring in the area, not least of which is a home-by-home accountability search.  This activity involves the use of multiple types of resources including law enforcement canines, investigative personnel, firefighters, and heavy equipment operators to ensure that there is no loss of life.   These operations cannot occur safely with vehicle traffic in the vicinity.  It is anticipated that closure will likely be lifted within the next few days.

The Board of Commissioners agrees that this closure is prudent and appropriate at this time.  We ask that the community remain patient in respect of our first responders and families of those affected.  The closure of McNeil Canyon Road is a hardship, and we cannot minimize the impact it has on commuters, service delivery, and access.  However, we must continue to remember that this area is not without hazard, and most importantly, remains an active crime scene.

In support of the efforts to locate the individuals responsible for this horrific event, Douglas County will be offering a $25,000 reward for information leading to the identification, arrest, and conviction of the perpetrator.

Our thoughts remain always with our friends, family, and community members who have been profoundly affected by this devastating fire.