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Teen Who Started Wildfire Ordered to Pay $37 Million

The 15-year-old threw firecrackers into the Columbia River Gorge last fall, starting the destructive blaze.

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A judge ordered the 15-year-old boy who started last fall’s wildfire in the Columbia River Gorge to pay $37 million–the amount it will take to cover firefighting costs, home damage, and restoration to the gorge. Payments can be halted after 10 years if he complies. 

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