An iconic Joshua Tree in Joshua Tree National Park, describes as “historic” by Park officials, was discovered burning Saturday night, and park officials say the fire was set intentionally. According to a park press release, park officials were notified at 8:10 p.m. Saturday about the burning tree, located along the road about a mile east of Sheep Pass campground. The visitors who discovered the tree burning managed to slow the burn by pouring their water bottles on it until firefighters arrived. Firefighters put out the fire and kept it from spreading into the desert. Park Superintendent David Smith said, “These iconic trees are the tangible symbol of the park, and of the California desert. The loss of any Joshua tree saddens me.” The tree was cut down at the base to prevent it from falling. Smith told Z107.7 that the iconic tree was one of the biggest and most photographed in the park and he is puzzled by the senseless act. He said an active investigation is ongoing and anyone who was in the area about 8:00 Saturday night and may have seen suspicious activity around the tree is asked to contact park rangers.
