Chico Man Arrested for Arson in Historic Bidwell Mansion Fire

Kevin Alexander Carlson, 30, is accused of intentionally setting the December blaze that severely damaged the 19th-century landmark.

Kevin Alexander Carlson was arrested on Thursday and faces felony arson charges, including an enhancement for using an accelerant.
The December 11 fire caused extensive damage to Bidwell Mansion, a historic 26-room residence built in 1868 and home to Chico's founder, John Bidwell.
Authorities, including Cal Fire and State Parks, determined the fire to be an act of arson after an investigation concluded on December 17.
Carlson is being held without bail, with an arraignment scheduled for Monday afternoon in Butte County Superior Court.
Efforts are underway to assess the future of the mansion, which was undergoing restoration before the fire, and to determine its status as a California Historical Landmark.