**A huge wildfire which has devastated a large area north of Los Angeles was started deliberately, say the authorities in California.**A homicide investigation has been launched as two fire fighters were killed tackling the blaze, known as the Station Fire.
The fire covers nearly 150,000 acres - the largest in the county’s history.
Dozens of homes have been destroyed and thousands of people evacuated but the fire is now 38% contained, say reports.
“After a forensic examination at the point of origin, arson investigators have concluded that the Station Fire was the result of an act of arson,” said US Forest Service Commander Rita Wears.
No further details have been given about the evidence for arson or whether any suspects have been identified.
The two firefighters, Ted Hall and Arnie Quinones, were killed when their fire engine fell down a mountainside at the weekend.
The governor of California, Arnold Schwarzenegger, toured affected areas on Thursday and said it was “horrible” for those who had lost their homes and belongings.
“Even though we are still battling those fires, we are now trying to help get people’s lives rebuilt,” he said.