By Cris Alarcon, InEDC Writer. (May 18, 2025)
SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. — A coordinated firefighting effort from multiple local, state, and federal agencies prevented disaster Monday after four suspicious fires broke out in South Lake Tahoe, prompting concern near the Lake Tahoe Wildlife Care facility off Pioneer Trail and Al Tahoe Boulevard.
According to the U.S. Forest Service Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit (LTBMU), each fire ranged in size from one-quarter to one-half acre. All were quickly contained with forward progress halted. Cleanup operations are ongoing.
The fires are under active investigation, and authorities suspect they are human-caused. One fire ignited just outside the main perimeter fence of the wildlife facility, prompting staff and volunteers to prepare for a possible evacuation of animals.
“We are extremely thankful to the first responders, our staff, and the volunteers who acted swiftly and calmly under pressure,” said Catherine Mendes, executive director of Lake Tahoe Wildlife Care. “Their quick response made all the difference in ensuring the safety of everyone involved.”
Responding agencies included South Lake Tahoe Fire Rescue, Lake Valley Fire Protection District, CAL FIRE, Tahoe Douglas Fire Protection District, the South Lake Tahoe Police Department, El Dorado County Sheriff’s Office, and aerial support from Calstar.
No evacuations were ordered, and no injuries or structural damage have been reported.
Authorities are urging the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activity. Anyone with information related to the fires is encouraged to contact the El Dorado County Sheriff’s Office or South Lake Tahoe Police Department.
At approximately 1:00 PM today, South Lake Tahoe Fire Rescue responded to a fire incident on our property, outside our main perimeter fence. Thanks to the quick actions of our staff and volunteers, all wildlife patients were safely contained and ready for evacuation within 20 minutes.
The threat has been averted, and all animals are now back in their enclosures.We’re incredibly grateful to the first responders for their fast response and support. We’re fully cooperating with authorities as they conduct their investigation.
Most importantly, all of our wildlife patients are safe. Thank you to everyone who helped!
