The woman accused of sparking the Highland Lakes wildfire that burned over 150 acres last year has seen several delays in her criminal proceedings, with Monday’s hearing bringing another. 

Lowa Tillitt, 77, also referred to as Lacey Tillitt in public records, was arrested Jan. 16 for allegedly starting the Highland Lakes fire Oct. 28. Tillitt faces one count of felony arson endangering more than $1 million in property.

Law enforcement at the time stated that the fire burned 166 acres northwest of Divide and caused more than 700 households to be evacuated. 

Tillitt’s legal proceedings so far have primarily focused on her competency to proceed to trial. In March, Tillitt was placed on a mental health stay, according to past Gazette coverage.

Alleged Highland Lakes fire starter has history of mental illness concerns, made threats

During her latest hearing on July 28, Teller County Judge William Moller heard testimony from both sides, including from a former jail cellmate, regarding Tillitt’s competency. Testimony took until the end of the day, and the defense counsel and prosecution were asked to file their final arguments ahead of Monday’s hearing. 

Tillitt was visibility agitated and anxious during the late-July hearing, occasionally breaking down in tears.

The arson suspect was anticipated to be in court Monday, but her defense counsel said she refused transport from the jail, but did not provide a reason why.

According to an arrest affidavit previously obtained by The Gazette, Tillitt allegedly told investigators she had been burning carboard boxes inside her house in her wood-burning stove. When she opened the oven to burn more material, the flames escaped, lighting the couch on fire.

Further investigation revealed a  “estranged” relationship between Tillitt and her insurance company, American National. She allegedly made “approximately seven statements of setting her residence on fire,” to the company after canceling her plan. The residence was set to foreclose days before the fire, according to her arrest affidavit. 

Court documents shed light on Highland Lakes fire investigation

Court records show Tillitt has another open case in which she faces one felony count of assault on an officer while in custody and two misdemeanors —harassment and obstructing a peace officer.

Tillitt’s next court appearance for both cases is set for Aug. 11, when Moller is expected to rule whether or not Tillitt can continue with legal proceedings. She remains in Teller County jail as of Monday, inmate records show.