A suspect was arrested after a brush fire damaged trees and scorched part of the Salt Lake City park
A brush fire that scorched part of Salt Lake City’s historic Memory Grove Park on Friday ended with a suspect in custody as investigators accused him of starting the blaze that damaged dozens of trees and threatened a popular green space.
Firefighters responded shortly after 10 a.m. to reports of flames spreading through the lower section of the park. Their quick response prevented the fire from reaching nearby structures, and no injuries were reported. While crews remained on scene for several hours to eliminate lingering hot spots, police launched an investigation that led to an arrest.
Memory Grove Park fire prompts multiple charges
Authorities identified the suspect as 43 year old Matthew Nelson, who was booked on several misdemeanor and felony charges. Investigators said he faces allegations of reckless burning, second degree felony property damage, felony possession of methamphetamine, possession of drug paraphernalia and obstruction of justice.
Officials alleged the fire destroyed about 15 trees, each estimated to be worth about $1,000. The damage formed the basis for the felony property damage charge.
The Salt Lake City Fire Department initially said a person had been taken into custody on suspicion of reckless burning and other offenses. Additional details released later identified the suspect and outlined the charges.
🔥 BREAKING: A fire broke out at Memory Grove in Salt Lake City on Friday morning, but firefighters say it is now under control.
One of my friends who lives nearby sent me this video and said police pulled a man out of a restroom just as fire crews were arriving. Officials have… pic.twitter.com/6Xtpn7khoC
— Chase Thomason (@ChaseThomason) June 19, 2026
Memory Grove Park crews stopped the flames quickly
Firefighters arrived within minutes of the initial emergency calls and immediately worked to contain the fast moving grass fire. Officials said the blaze burned between half an acre and about one acre before it was brought under control. Crews remained in the park throughout the afternoon to extinguish small flare ups and ensure the fire was fully contained.
The fire department credited parks employees and community members for quickly reporting the blaze and providing information that helped first responders and investigators during the emergency. Nearby residents said the fire produced towering flames and came uncomfortably close to surrounding homes before firefighters gained control.
Officials urge caution during fire season
The incident also served as another reminder of the heightened wildfire risk across Utah. Fire officials urged residents to avoid open flames and other potential ignition sources, especially in areas where neighborhoods border natural vegetation.
The warning came as firefighters elsewhere in the state battled the Iron Fire near Eureka. According to the Utah Fire Info dashboard, the wildfire had grown to about 1,000 acres Friday night and is believed to have been caused by human activity. Authorities continue to investigate the Memory Grove Park fire as the criminal case moves forward.