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$6,000 Reward Offered After Arson Destroys Sand Mountain Restroom

Nevada
Media Contact
BLM_NV_NVSO_web_mail@blm.gov
BLM Office:
Stillwater Field Office

 

CARSON CITY, Nev. - Visitors to Sand Mountain Recreation Area lost a public restroom to arson on Oct. 25, 2026. Now, the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is asking for the public’s help identifying those responsible and offering a $6,000 reward for information leading to an arrest and conviction.

Over the weekend, Churchill County firefighters and sheriff’s deputies responded to the recreation area and found the campground restroom engulfed in flames. Investigators with the Nevada State Police State Fire Marshal Division determined the fire was intentionally set and involved the suspected use of accelerants. The building is a total loss. BLM is leading the investigation.

“Places like Sand Mountain create lasting memories for families, campers, and outdoor enthusiasts,” said Matt Magaletti, Acting District Manager. “People come to Sand Mountain to enjoy their public lands, and deliberately destroying a facility they depend on takes something away from everyone who visits. We're hoping someone saw or heard something that could help investigators. Even the smallest detail could help investigators identify who is responsible.”

Anyone who was in the Sand Mountain Recreation Area during the evening of October 24 or early morning hours of October 25 and observed suspicious activity or who might have information about this fire is encouraged to contact BLM Law Enforcement.

Tips may be reported to:

Callers may remain anonymous. Information leading to the arrest and conviction of the person or persons responsible may be eligible for the $6,000 reward.

The BLM manages about 245 million acres of public land located primarily in 12 western states, including Alaska, on behalf of the American people. The BLM also administers 700 million acres of sub-surface mineral estate throughout the nation. Our mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of America’s public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations.