ALPINE, Utah (ABC 4 News) - Fire investigators said Friday they continue to looking for what caused the initial spark of the Quail fire that spread over 2,000 acres.
According to the Utah County Sheriff's Department, the fire started near a track hoe working near the Rodeo grounds in Alpine Wednesday.
James Patterson, President of Patterson Construction, said he hired a sub contractor to do a geotechnical study of the land. The company planned on building on the land in the future and was following requirements by the city to make sure the land was suitable to build on.
"To do a geotechnical study you have to do some trenching and a geotech company will come out and do that," Patterson said.
ABC 4 News confirmed the sub contractor conducting the geotechnical study was Sunset Mountain Machinery in Apline. Their office is located inside Patterson Construction.
Scott Dunn, owner of Sunset Mountain Machinery, declined an on camera interview pending the results of the fire investigation. Dunn said he is cooperating with any city, state or federal investigators on the case. The employee operating the track hoe at the time of the accident tried to help put out flames. The employee has since taken time off work.
Patterson said he is cooperating in any way he can.
"We are certainly working with the U.S. Forest Service and local officials," Patterson said. "We are very supportive of them. We have nothing to hide."
Patterson said although the investigation has not been completed, he would accept responsiblity if his company was found liable for the fire.
Fire officials have not yet determined who will be responsbile.
