RED LODGE, Mont. (NMB) – A Bridger man suspected of starting the Robertson Draw Fire south of Red Lodge has been arraigned in Montana District Court.
John Lightburn, 55, pleaded not guilty on Wednesday to numerous charges, including the felonies of negligent arson and criminal mischief.
The fire has burned seven homes and 30,000 acres of land, and was about 70 percent contained as of Wednesday.
Lightburn has said that on June 13th, he accidentally spilled gasoline on a road closed to motor vehicles while trying to fix his dirt bike. He said the fire ignited when he was checking his spark plug.
Lightburn remains in custody after a motion to reduce his bail was denied.
