Search Underway for Suspected Arsonist Starting Fires in Big Cottonwood Canyon

Updates

• April 15, 2026
  UPDATE: Suspect Arrested in Big Cottonwood Canyon Arson Investigation Authorities have arrested a man accused of intentionally starting multiple fires in Big Cottonwood Canyon, bringing an end to an active search that involved multiple agencies earlier this week. According to officials, 34-year-old Garrett Jay Boyd is facing charges of arson and failure to obey law enforcement commands. He is currently being held without bail. Investigators say Boyd was seen Tuesday afternoon setting small fires in the Mount Olympus Wilderness area. Witnesses reported spotting smoke rising from the mountainside and observed unusual behavior before calling 911. Aerial resources played a key role in locating the suspect. A National Guard helicopter that was already nearby was able to track Boyd from the air until additional support arrived. Due to the steep and rugged terrain, crews were deployed by helicopter to reach him. Authorities say Boyd was ultimately taken into custody on the mountainside and transported out of the area by air. According to court documents, Boyd told investigators he had used drugs the night before and alcohol earlier that day. He also claimed he was acting on guidance from “spirits” and believed the land was sacred, leading him to intentionally start multiple fires without any way to put them out. Officials confirmed that at least three fires were started but did not spread and appeared to extinguish on their own. The response included personnel from the Salt Lake County Sheriff’s Office, Unified Fire Authority, and the U.S. Forest Service. Sheriff Rosie Rivera said the situation could have been far worse under different conditions and credited witnesses for quickly reporting the activity. The investigation remains ongoing.