Twentynine Palms Marine Suspected Of Firing Flare At Wisc. Plant

CUDAHY, Wisc. – Police in Wisconsin believe a Twentynine Palms Marine was one of two men who caused massive fire at a meatpacking plant by firing a military flare at it.

Cudahy Police announced the Marine, Joshua Popp, 23, and his brother, Kurtis, 25, as suspects in the July 5 fire.

Kurtis was arrested this week while Joshua, who currently lives in California, is expected to be brought back to Wisconsin to be charged. However, no charges have been filed yet.

The plant fire burned for three days, causing an estimated $50 million in damage.

It is illegal for a civilian to possess a military-grade flare.

Joshua Popp served two tours of duty in Iraq and received the Purple Heart.

Over 1,400 employees have been unable to work since the fire began. They have been advised to apply for unemployment benefits, according to a company executive.