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Suspicious fire destroys 2 buildings at Binion Ranch in Pahrump

Posted at 5:09 PM, Sep 18, 2019
and last updated 2019-09-18 20:09:36-04

Two structures were destroyed by fire on the historic Binion Ranch property in Pahrump last weekend.

Pahrump Fire Chief Scott Lewis says the fire was reported shortly before 2 a.m. Sept. 16.

The buildings were "well involved" when firefighters arrived. Because of the size of the fire, additional crew was brought in.

The fire was brought under control in about 30 minutes. Crews remained on scene until Sunday morning in case the fire reignited.

Chief Lewis says the fire was suspicious and is currently under investigation.

A former employee of the ranch was arrested in April 2019 after he dug several holes around the ranch, looking for silver. He was reportedly helped by two other men. It is unknown if they have been arrested.

The ranch was formerly owned by Ted Binion, known for burying his treasure at various locations.

The Binion Ranch was bought by Ralph L. and Betty L. McKnight in 2016 for more than $1 million.