PHOENIX — A San Carlos Apache tribe member was apprehended on Friday for allegedly igniting a wildfire that resulted in the destruction of 21 homes and led to the evacuation of hundreds in a southeastern Arizona reservation, according to federal prosecutors.

Keanu Rudy Dude, 25, faces charges of arson related to the July 2024 blaze that scorched over 3 square miles (approximately 7.8 square kilometers), as stated by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Arizona. His arrest took place due to an active indictment issued by a federal grand jury in Phoenix.

So far, the legal counsel for Dude has not responded to requests for comment regarding the charges against him.

The wildfire not only destroyed homes but also damaged power lines, leading to a brief power outage in the area. Authorities reported that it took a full week to bring the fire under control, prompting the declaration of a state of emergency to assist the tribal members affected.

Although the Watch Fire did not result in any injuries, tribal chairman Terry Rambler described the incident as the “most serious structural fire” the reservation has experienced in many years.

Dude is scheduled for his initial court appearance on February 24.

Tribal representatives have indicated that Dude has a history of criminal activity.

Further details concerning the circumstances surrounding Dude’s arrest or his potential motives have not been released at this time.