Tea Fire Investigators Seek Public’s Help

Fire investigators in Santa Barbara County are asking for assistance from members of the public in obtaining any information that could help identify the person or persons who may have caused the Tea Fire. The Tea Fire investigation has progressed significantly in the last two days. The Fire Scene Examination Team has determined the cause of the fire was human related. The team has also established an area of origin on East Mountain Drive between the Cold Springs Trailhead and the area known as “The Tea House.”

The investigation focus is now shifting toward individuals entering the property late Wednesday night and through the early morning hours of Thursday. At this time it is not known if the cause was accidental or intentional.

Investigators are asking anyone who may have information related to this fire, to contact the Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Department’s anonymous tip line.

Investigators are seeking descriptions of any vehicles or people seen in the area, any vehicle license plate numbers, and any suspicious activity that may be related to the Tea Fire.

If you have any relevant information, call the Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Department’s anonymous tip line at (805) 681-4171.