Unknown Suspect Poisons 16 Lake Tahoe Pines Since May as Investigators Probe View-Boosting Motive
Updated
Updated · Los Angeles Times · Aug 8
Unknown Suspect Poisons 16 Lake Tahoe Pines Since May as Investigators Probe View-Boosting Motive
3 articles · Updated · Los Angeles Times · Aug 8
Summary
Ten pine trees at Incline Village’s Burnt Cedar Beach were found poisoned Sunday, the latest in three attacks since May that have hit 16 trees and killed at least 10 overall.
Investigators said someone drilled near the roots and injected a suspected chemical—possibly copper sulfate—while diesel or another substance was poured around the bases; a trail camera caught a flash near 2 a.m.
Washoe County deputies suspect the goal may have been to improve lake views and property values in a community where unobstructed sight lines command steep premiums and more than 100 homes could benefit.
The beach is gated and residents-only, but authorities are examining how the culprit got in, while the Tahoe planning agency reviews nearby tree-removal permit records and residents push for more cameras and patrols.
The attacks date to 2022 and have escalated, alarming locals because the mature pines help filter runoff that protects Lake Tahoe’s famously clear water.