Civilian Drone Interrupts California Firefighting Efforts

On Sunday, July 12, 2026, the Sierra County Sheriff's Department issued a statement regarding illegal drone activity hindering wildland firefighting efforts on the Elephant Fire.
North of Truckee, near Loyalton, California, the Elephant Fire is still burning and has affected more than 6,400 acres, as of Monday, July 13.On Sunday, aerial firefighting efforts were temporarily grounded after a civilian illegally flew a drone in the area. Another citizen reported the drone to the Sierra County Sheri