CHICO, CA (MPG) – Officers with California State Parks, CAL FIRE’s Office of the State Fire Marshal, Chico Police Department, and the California State University, Chico Police Department on the afternoon of Jan. 2 arrested a suspect on felony arson charges in connection with the Dec. 11 fire that severely damaged Bidwell Mansion State Historic Park.

Kevin Alexander Carlson, 30, of Chico, was taken into custody and booked at the Butte County Jail on multiple charges, including Penal Code 451(c) Arson.

The early morning fire caused extensive damage to the historic mansion. CAL FIRE investigators found clear indicators pointing to an intentional act and on Dec. 17, determined the cause to be arson.

Bidwell Mansion State Historic Park remains closed to the public. Completed in 1868, the 26-room mansion was undergoing an extensive renovation that was nearly complete when the fire broke out.

California State Parks has begun discussing the future of the state historic park with community partners, including the city of Chico; CSU Chico; the Mechoopda Indian Tribe; and the Bidwell Mansion Association. State Parks is assessing what remains of the mansion and how that fits with its designation as a California Historical Landmark and being listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Any decision about the future of the park will involve substantial community input and engagement, tribal consultation, and considerations of national standards for historic properties.

California State Parks acknowledges its partners' efforts in providing the resources and expertise needed to bring this suspect into custody. It was a collaborative effort with CAL FIRE – Office of State Fire Marshal Arson and Bomb Unit; Chico Police Department; CAL FIRE – Butte Unit; CSU Chico Police Department; Butte County District Attorney’s Office; the Federal Bureau of Investigation and other allied agencies. 

If the public has any photos or videos related to the Bidwell Mansion fire, call the CAL FIRE – Office of State Fire Marshal Arson and Bomb Unit hotline at 1-800-468-4408.