On July 26, 2025, the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO) worked with multiple fire agencies to address a wildfire, known as the “RedFire,” in a wooded area northeast of Redway. According to Cal Fire investigators at the scene, the fire was started by human activity and linked to people living illegally in camps on private property. The fire was contained before it could spread further due to the coordinated response of local fire agencies. Authorities noted that ongoing fire season conditions increase risks for rural areas such as Redway.
Following the incident, HCSO deputies, together with Cal Fire law enforcement and the property owner, contacted individuals residing on the land. They informed them they were trespassing and needed to leave. These individuals were given time to vacate and received information about resources available to assist them in relocating.
A follow-up inspection took place on August 3, 2025, led by HCSO deputies and Cal Fire law enforcement officers. During this inspection, all encampments except one had been vacated. Eva Markowitz, 35, of Redway, was arrested for trespassing under California Penal Code 602(o).
The sheriff’s office stated that patrol deputies will continue monitoring these camps to ensure public safety remains a priority.
“Anyone with information about this case or related criminal activity is encouraged to call the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office at (707) 445-7251 or the Sheriff’s Office Crime Tip line at (707) 268-2539.”
“Anyone with information about this case or related criminal activity is encouraged to call the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office at (707) 445-7251 or the Sheriff’s Office Crime Tip line at (707) 268-2539.”
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