I agree that a significant number of the fires started are arson. Have someone check out how many of the houses that burned were up for sale. That was a pretty common activity in Californicate back in the 70s when whole subdivisions were torched for the insurance money. Another aspect is the common criminal getting even with the government. Target shooting, I doubt it. One article alleged that two target shooters admitted that target shooting caused the fire ... I’m extremely doubtful ... sounds like trying to cover up a fire started through carelessness such as a campfire, cigarettes, etc.
I remember well - and have to agree - torched for insurance - with little doubt!