1:15PM UPDATE: DCSO located and arrested a suspect in causing the early morning fire near Bally’s and the Park estate in Lake Tahoe. At approximately 9:28 a.m. on July 22, 2025, deputies arrested Matthew Schroeder, 41, of South Lake Tahoe, Calif., on the following charges: trespassing, illegal camping, illegal fire, arson 3rd degree and violation of court conditions. Total $1,478 and no bail hold.
Douglas County Sheriff Dan Coverley is reminding the public that it is illegal to camp in Lake Tahoe in non-designated camping locations. This law is strictly enforced. Please notify the Sheriff’s Office if you see anyone camping illegally and immediately if you see anyone with an illegal campfire.
LAKE TAHOE, Nev. – On July 22, 2025, at approximately 5:54 a.m., Douglas County Sheriff’s Deputies (DCSO), along with Tahoe Douglas Fire Protection District (TDFD), responded to the area of the Park Estate near Highway 50 and Kingsbury Grade in Stateline, Nevada. While fighting the fire, TDFD firefighters found a transient camping near where the fire started. As soon as the transient was contacted, he fled the area.
The transient is described as a white male adult, approximately 6’0” tall, of slender build with a shaved head. The individual was last seen wearing a purple multi-colored button-up shirt. The individual also had a black and white border collie-type dog with him.
This individual is a suspect in the start of the fire, and DCSO is seeking help from the public in identifying him.
The fire was quickly contained to an area about 50 ft. x 50 ft.
Anyone with information is asked to contact the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office Investigations Division at 775-782-9905.