Target Shooter Confesses to Igniting Sawmill Fire, Sheriff’s Report Reveals

A newly released report from the Pima County Sheriff’s Department has confirmed that Dennis Dickey, a target shooter, was responsible for igniting the Sawmill Fire near Madera Canyon, south of Tucson. On April 23, the day the fire began, Dickey approached a sheriff’s deputy and admitted to using Tannerite, an explosive substance commonly associated with target practice, stating that it triggered the fire.

Deputy Benjamin Harrison noted that Tannerite is readily available for purchase and can be set off with a high-velocity rifle round, making it a popular choice among shooters. The report reveals that Dickey was among those who initially reported the fire, further complicating the situation.

While the report does not specify Dickey’s affiliation with the Border Patrol, the agency has acknowledged that one of its agents is under investigation concerning the incident. The fire ignited on state land where target shooting is prohibited. The Forest Service is currently investigating the case but has refrained from providing details on its findings or potential legal actions.

Sean Chapman, the attorney representing Dickey, indicated that his client is cooperating with investigations but has not made public statements. A woman at Dickey’s home in Green Valley declined to comment, stating they had legal representation and were not available for interviews.

The Sawmill Fire rapidly spread over approximately 47,000 acres, affecting state, federal, and private lands, and incurred firefighting costs totaling $7.3 million. Mark Heitlinger, manager of the Santa Rita Experimental Range—where the fire began—suggested that stronger regulations are necessary to foster awareness about the risks associated with target shooting in these areas.

The fire was initially reported shortly before 11 a.m., with multiple calls indicating smoke visible from as far as the Desert Diamond Casino. Information gathered by authorities noted that the fire ignited in a commonly used shooting area on state trust land, which the landowner had warned shooters was illegal.

As concerns grow about enforcement, Heitlinger highlighted that the only prevention mechanism currently in place is a permit system that restricts certain activities, including target shooting. He emphasized the need for better signage to inform users about existing regulations to prevent such incidents in the future, acknowledging the challenges posed by the vast area of the range.

This ongoing investigation examines not just the immediate causes of the fire but also broader questions regarding regulation enforcement on state lands, and how these regulations can prevent future tragedies.