Hunter Caused Huge Wildfire Near Yosemite, U.S. Forest Service Says

In this photo provided by the U.S. Forest Service, fire crew members stand watch near a controlled burn operation as they release a very pistol, as they fight the Rim Fire near Yosemite National Park in California, Sept. 2, 2013. /AP PHOTO/U.S. FOREST SERVICE, MIKE MCMILLAN

Alan: I believe Americans have a right to well-regulated gun ownership. Even so, if the guy who started the Yosemite fire did not  have a gun, the chances are the blaze would have never occurred. Just sayin'.

YOSEMITE NATIONAL PARK, CALIF.The U.S. Forest Service says a gigantic wildfire near Yosemite National Park began when a hunter allowed an illegal fire to escape.

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The Forest Service said Thursday there is no indication the hunter was involved with illegal marijuana cultivation, which a local fire chief had speculated as the possible cause of blaze.

No arrests have been made, and the hunter's name is being withheld pending further investigation.

The Rim Fire began on Aug. 17 and threatened thousands of homes. It is now 80 percent contained.

Officials said 111 structures, including 11 homes, have been destroyed. More than 4,300 firefighters are still battling the blaze.

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