Equipment Malfunction Sparks 55-Acre Wildfire in East Austin, Injuring Two Firefighters

Following an equipment malfunction that ignited it, a wildfire in East Austin has been extinguished after consuming approximately 55 acres. The fire erupted at approximately 12:30 p.m. on Thursday along FM 969 near Decker Lane and swiftly grew from a quarter-acre to several acres in a matter of minutes, necessitating immediate action from local fire departments.

As the fire threatened adjacent structures, such as a school, neighborhood, and jail, Rachael Lewis of the Austin Fire Department received numerous calls from concerned residents. Fortunately, no evacuations were necessary; however, the KIPP Austin Ridge campus elected to release students early "out of an abundance of caution."

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The fire's spread was further exacerbated by the challenging conditions of fluctuating winds and dry weather that firefighters encountered. The scene was attended by over 100 firefighters from a variety of agencies, as well as Travis County STAR Flight. Two firefighters sustained injuries during the operation; however, the specifics of their conditions are still unknown.

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Randy Denzer, a wildfire expert, emphasized that the present environmental conditions are conducive to vegetation fires. He advised residents to remain vigilant and promptly report any indications of fire. Denzer cautioned, "It is not difficult to ignite a fire."

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Officials confirmed that no structures were damaged, and the fire was declared fully contained by 5 p.m. Authorities are underscoring the necessity of increased awareness of fire safety in the region as they continue to investigate the cause.

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