Man facing charge in fire that burned three homes

KALISPELL (AP) – A man suspected of dropping a cigarette and causing a fire that burned at least three homes in August is facing a charge in Flathead County.

The Flathead Beacon reports Joseph DeVera was charged with misdemeanor negligent endangerment related to the 6.5-acre blaze on Aug. 5 that evacuated homes in Evergreen. He has not yet appeared in court.

Deputy County Attorney Kenneth Park says the fire caused more than $500,000 in damage.

DeVera also recently pleaded not guilty to a felony theft charge involving a 2007 Chevy Impala that was stolen Aug. 13.