Galen Scott
gscott@weatherforddemocrat.com
MILLSAP — Fire departments from all over Parker County rushed to extinguish a stubborn brush fire that burned to within a few yards of several homes Tuesday afternoon.
Ultimately, the fire consumed more than 100 acres along Wilson Bend Road, destroying at least one barn and several pieces of equipment, according to a preliminary report at the scene from assistant Parker County Fire Marshal Joe Washburn.
The Texas Forest Service dispatched an air attack helicopter and spotter plane to assist ground operations. The helicopter dropped fire retardant over areas prone to reignite.
Officials believe the blaze started near FM 3028, known as Millsap Highway, and was propelled by a north wind through a large hay pasture toward homes along the east side of Wilson Bend Road.
After moving through the pasture, wind swept the flames into heavily wooded areas, igniting trees as tall as 40 feet.
Homeowner Kathy Scott was forced to evacuate with two out of five horses in a trailer. She said the remaining animals were frightened and would not load.
Other property owners operated water hoses and tractors assisting crews of firefighters from at least nine Parker County departments.
Temperatures exceeded 100 degrees throughout the fire, exacerbating conditions on the ground. Volunteers with the American Red Cross arrived providing water and other support services.
“You can’t take more than a little bit before you need to get water,” said Nancy Burgoyne, of the Greenwood Volunteer Fire Department.
The blaze was largely under control with mop-up efforts initiated shortly after 5 p.m.
Local News
Related Photos
July 15, 2009
Fire threatens homes along Wilson Bend Road
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