Neighbors Sue Oregon Landowner Over Bull Springs Wildfire Damage

The owner of the land where the Bull Springs Fire originated in Oregon in 2021 is being sued for $2.4 million by three neighboring property owners. The lawsuits allege that James Verheyden acted negligently and caused property damage and noneconomic damage.

The fire, which was caused by a burn pile that rekindled after hired workers performed slash burns on Verheyden’s 600-acre property, burned 211 acres and forced nearly 200 residents to evacuate their homes.

The lawsuits claim that Verheyden failed to comply with a permit to conduct slash burning. The permit requires that slash pits should be patrolled until cold to the touch to prevent fire spread. Verheyden pleaded no contest and paid a $115 fine for this violation on May 3, 2021.

Verheyden’s attorney claimed in court documents on March 5, 2021, that an arsonist may have started the fire.

Two plaintiffs seek $900K and one $600K in damages to their properties, and $500K each in noneconomic damages. Plaintiffs claim damages include loss of use, diminution in value, emotional distress, and mental anguish.