Gila County Sheriff's Office

06/08/2026

06/08/2026

Brush Fire in Tonto Basin Results in Structure Losses, No Injuries Reported

On June 7, 2026, at approximately 11:48 a.m., a brush fire was reported in the 400 block of North Pioneer Pass in Tonto Basin.

Resources from State Fire, the United States Forest Service, Tonto Basin Fire Department, Payson Fire Department, and the Gila County Sheriff's Office responded to the scene.

Upon arrival, firefighters observed the fire burning in close proximity to several structures with a moderate rate of spread. Deputies immediately began issuing SET and GO evacuation notifications to residents along Pioneer Pass and portions of the east side of Highway 188.

Several structures were lost as a result of the fire; however, no injuries have been reported at this time.An investigation determined the fire was caused by a male subject who was welding on a gate. The subject was subsequently issued a citation for ARS 13-1702(A), Reckless Burning.

The Gila County Sheriff's Office would like to thank all responding agencies for their quick response and coordinated efforts.

06/04/2026

DRUG TRAFFICKING, FELONY FLIGHT & KIDNAPPING INVESTIGATION

On May 17, 2026, a Gila County Sheriff's Deputy conducting traffic enforcement south of Payson attempted to stop a speeding vehicle on State Route 87. During the stop, the driver provided identification that could not be verified before fleeing at a high rate of speed. The pursuit was terminated for public safety.

With assistance from the Tonto Apache Police Department, Arizona Department of Public Safety, and Payson Police Department, the suspect was later located and taken into custody on the Tonto Apache Reservation after resisting arrest.

Investigators discovered the suspect was in possession of more than 12 pounds of co***ne and approximately $73,000 in U.S. currency. It was also determined that the passenger in the vehicle was prevented from leaving during the incident.

The suspect remains in custody at the Gila County Jail facing multiple felony charges, including Transportation of Narcotic Drugs for Sale, Kidnapping, Unlawful Flight from Law Enforcement, Fraud Schemes, and Resisting Arrest.

The Gila County Sheriff's Office thanks all assisting agencies for their teamwork and dedication in bringing this suspect into custody.