Press release from the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office:

On July 26, 2025, Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO) patrol deputies assisted numerous fire agencies with the “RedFire” which occurred in a wooded area just northeast of the town of Redway. Cal Fire investigators on scene determined that this fire was human caused and was directly related to the large population of people who illegally live in the camps on this piece of private property. Thanks to the swift and coordinated efforts of all fire agencies involved, the fire was contained, preventing a larger-scale incident. However, as fire season progresses, such incidents pose an increasing risk to rural communities like Redway.

Since the fire, HCSO patrol deputies, in collaboration with the private property owner and Cal Fire law enforcement personnel, have contacted numerous individuals residing on this property, advised them that they were trespassing, and needed to vacate. These individuals were given time to vacate prior to enforcement and offered information on available resources to assist with their transition.

On August 3, 2025, HCSO patrol deputies and Cal Fire law enforcement conducted a follow-up inspection to ensure compliance with the vacate order. All encampments were found to be vacated, with the exception of one individual. Eva Markowitz, 35, of Redway, was arrested for violating California Penal Code 602(o) (Trespassing).

HCSO patrol deputies will continue to monitor these camps and make sure that public safety is prioritized.

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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