BREAKING NEWS: The accused Oak Fire arsonist, 73-year-old Edward Wackerman, has been released from jail with an electronic ankle monitor following a court order, confirmed the Mariposa County Sheriff’s Office on Monday night. This development comes after Wackerman was arrested on July 22, 2022, for allegedly starting the devastating Oak Fire, which destroyed 127 homes in what Sheriff Jeremy Briese called the most catastrophic event in Mariposa County history.
Wackerman’s release was a result of a court hearing held on June 16, 2023, where representatives from the California Department of Justice and Wackerman’s defense reached an agreement for his release. He has pleaded not guilty to multiple felony charges, including aggravated arson. Sheriff Briese expressed his concern during a live Facebook session, stating, “The sheriff’s office will do everything we can to be of assistance. We will work closely with probation to ensure monitoring is successful.”
The Oak Fire, which erupted in the summer of 2022, left a profound impact on the community, raising urgent questions about fire safety and accountability. As Wackerman returns to court for a pre-trial hearing scheduled for January 2026, many residents remain uneasy about the implications of his release.
Sheriff Briese emphasized the sheriff’s office’s commitment to keeping a vigilant eye on Wackerman. He stated, “We hope things like this can be reversed. I don’t know if that’s in the legislature or the assembly or case law or what we gotta do, but it’s not right.” This statement underscores the community’s frustration and the ongoing concerns regarding fire safety regulations.
As this situation develops, residents and officials alike will be watching closely. The implications of Wackerman’s release and the handling of this case will likely continue to stir debate within Mariposa County and beyond. Stay tuned for updates on this urgent matter as more details emerge.
