www.BendSource.com
Neighbors of James Verheyden are suing over damages caused by the Bull Springs Fire, which originated on Verheyden’s property. The lawsuit claims that Verheyden acted negligently, which resulted in the fire. The plaintiffs allege that the fire caused $1.5 million in non-economic damages and $900,000 in property damages.
The fire started from a burn pile that rekindled after workers performed slash burns. Slash burns are a fire mitigation strategy. The Bull Springs fire burned 211 acres, destroyed two outbuildings, and evacuated approximately 200 residents.
Verheyden’s attorney claimed in court documents, “There has been no determination or even a suggestion that the Verheydens started the Bull Springs fire. To the contrary, Dr. Verheyden's care for his land prevented the fire from truly taking off. Additionally, several factors corroborate the strong possibility that an arsonist started the fire.”