A 42-year-old man from Chico, California was arrested on suspicion of arson for allegedly pushing a burning car into a ravine, resulting in the ongoing Park Fire that has ravaged more than 70,000 acres in California. The suspect's identity has not been disclosed.

The incident occurred on Wednesday afternoon when witnesses observed the man pushing a vehicle engulfed in flames into a gully near a swimming hole in Bidwell Park. The car burned completely, causing the spread of flames that led to the massive Park Fire, which has now become California's largest active wildfire.

Butte County District Attorney Michael L. Ramsey stated that the car went down a 60-foot embankment, igniting a blaze that quickly escalated in size. The fire, which was only 3% contained by Thursday afternoon, has grown from 6,500 acres to over 70,000 acres, according to CalFire reports.

After pushing the burning car into the gully, the suspect calmly left the area, blending in with other citizens who were fleeing the rapidly evolving fire, further complicating the investigation. However, dedicated arson investigators responded swiftly, securing the scene and initiating a search for evidence to identify the perpetrator.

The suspect was successfully identified, and a warrant for his arrest was issued on Thursday morning. He was subsequently apprehended and is currently being held without bail at the Butte County Jail. His arraignment is scheduled for Monday, according to District Attorney Ramsey.

Authorities plan to release the suspect's name later today. As wildfires continue to grip California and the western region, exacerbated by scorching temperatures, communities have been forced to evacuate, roads have been closed, and air quality has deteriorated due to heavy smoke and pollution.

The investigation into the Park Fire continues, with authorities determined to bring those responsible for the devastation to justice.