Year later, Two Bulls Fire still unsolved – for now?

Nearly a year after a massive fire broke out just west of Bend, there could be a break in the case.

Oregon Department of Forestry Spokesman Rod Nichols told NewsChannel 21 Friday “there’s some good leads” in the Two Bulls fire investigation and the case “could wrap up soon.”

Nichols declined to go into further detail, citing the ongoing, multi-agency investigation.

Oregon State Police are leading the investigation, but did not comment Friday — referring KTVZ to ODF for information about the case.

Sunday will mark one year since fire scorched about 7,000 acres and threatened hundreds of homes on the west side of Bend, forcing dozens to evacuate and putting thousands more on alert to be ready to move out quickly.

Hundreds of firefighters fought the fire that ended up costing roughly $5.7 million. A week after the flames broke out, the fire was declared contained.

Investigators have said the fire began as at least two human-caused fires that quickly merged. Officials said the fire was “suspicious” in nature and potentially arson.

Nichols said he couldn’t comment on whether that has changed in the year of investigation.

Deschutes County sheriff’s deputies said there is still a reward for any information leading to the arrest of a suspect.

The reward, raised by several agencies and private individuals was last reported to be more than $40,000 as of last June.

Capt. Scott Beard told NewsChannel 21 that it’s not certain whether all of that money is still available, as it was only “pledges” and never collected. Beard said he felt confident the entire reward likely still stands.

To hear from Bend residents remembering the Two Bulls Fire, watch the attached video.