At least one person has died in the Gann Fire in California’s Sierra Nevada foothills, which has burned more than 10,000 acres and destroyed seven buildings.

Police arrested 65-year-old Herbert Wayne Smith, who investigators believe accidentally sparked the blaze while using a chainsaw and other equipment near dry vegetation.

Smith, who had previously faced charges for starting another fire, expressed regret and said he never intended to cause the destruction.

The fire was about 40% contained as of Friday, while authorities investigate whether it caused the death of a woman found inside a burned home, The Guardian has reported.

The Gann Fire comes during a severe wildfire season across the American West, with major fires also burning in Washington state.