Palm Springs Investigators Seek Witness to Blaze That Destroyed 3 Acres of Palm Trees

Police are hoping a woman seen in the area shortly before the fire that decimated 100 palm trees may have information about the suspicious blaze.

Feb. 6, 2026 at 5:23pm

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Police in Palm Springs are searching for a woman who was seen in the Prescott Preserve shortly before a fire broke out that destroyed 3 acres and 100 palm trees. The fire is being investigated as suspicious, and authorities believe it was human-caused. The woman, described as a white female around 5'8" with blonde hair walking a dog, is not considered a suspect but detectives would like to interview her for any information she may have.

Why it matters

The loss of 100 palm trees in the Prescott Preserve is a significant blow to the local landscape and ecosystem. Palm trees are an iconic part of the Palm Springs environment, and the destruction of this many trees raises concerns about potential arson or reckless behavior in the area. Identifying the cause of the fire is important to prevent future incidents and protect the preserve.

The details

According to Palm Springs Police Chief Andrew Mills, the fire was reported shortly before 2:20 pm on Sunday near the preserve's pond. No injuries were reported and no nearby structures were damaged. Authorities say the fire appears to have started around the palm trees, off-trail and next to the water, indicating it was likely human-caused rather than due to dry conditions. Detectives are searching the area for evidence that could support an arson or reckless fire-starting charge.

  • The fire was reported shortly before 2:20 pm on Sunday, February 6, 2026.
  • A woman was seen in the area about 20 minutes before the fire started.

The players

Andrew Mills

The Palm Springs Police Chief, who is leading the investigation into the fire.

Jane Garrison

The founder and executive director of Oswit Land Trust, which oversees the Prescott Preserve where the fire occurred.

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What they’re saying

“What makes this loss even more painful is that we can say with a high degree of certainty that this fire was human-caused.”

— Jane Garrison, Founder and Executive Director, Oswit Land Trust

“The fire seems to have started around the palm trees, off-trail and right next to the water. It is important to be clear that this fire was not caused by dry conditions. The pond area is quite green and healthy.”

— Jane Garrison, Founder and Executive Director, Oswit Land Trust

What’s next

Police are asking anyone with information about the woman seen in the area or the fire itself to contact the Palm Springs Police Department at 760-323-8116.

The takeaway

This suspicious fire that destroyed a significant portion of the Prescott Preserve highlights the need for increased vigilance and protection of sensitive natural areas in Palm Springs. Identifying the cause and any potential arsonists is crucial to preventing future incidents and preserving the iconic palm tree landscape that is so central to the city's identity.