Man Arrested For Allegedly Starting Fire Near Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park

SANTA CRUZ COUNTY, CA – A 42-year-old man was arrested for allegedly starting a small brush fire along state Highway 9 in Felton early Monday morning, a Santa Cruz County Sheriff's spokesman said.

Jed Morouse, of Felton, is accused of starting the fire at a turnout near the 5700 block of Highway 9 near Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, sheriff's Sgt. Chris Clark said.

Around 12:30 a.m., an employee at a nearby business saw a small brush fire across the street and reported it to authorities, Clark said.

The employee was also able extinguish the fire with other people in the area, according to Clark.

Cal Fire crews were called and made sure the blaze was extinguished, Clark said.

Deputies found Morouse near the scene and arrested him on suspicion of arson, according to Clark.

• Also see: Marijuana Grow Operation in Santa Cruz Mountains: One Arrested

--Bay City News/Image via Santa Cruz Sheriff