Aspen Acres Fire in Colorado Causes Significant Damage

The Aspen Acres Fire, raging in southern Colorado, has destroyed 55 homes in Custer County and over 100 structures in Pueblo County. As of Tuesday afternoon, the wildfire has spread to 28,314 acres and remains 0% contained. Pueblo County Sheriff David J. Lucero mentioned in a news conference that firefighting crews are making diligent efforts to control the blaze and protect properties.

Mandatory evacuations are in effect for the towns of Beulah, Rye, and San Isabel. An evacuation center is set up at Pueblo County Parks and Recreation, located at 1650 Cooper Place in Pueblo. Those with large animals can use the Colorado State Fairgrounds for shelter. For the latest updates on evacuations, visit pueblosheriff.org.

“First and foremost, our thoughts are with every family, business owner, rancher, and resident who has been affected by the Aspen Acres Fire,” Sheriff Lucero stated. “We know this has been an incredibly stressful and emotional time. Many people have had to leave their homes, not knowing what they may return to, and I want everyone to know that the safety and well-being of our community remain our highest priority.”

Eight air tankers were among the aerial response units deployed on Tuesday. The cause of the fire remains unknown. One firefighter sustained injuries during the fire-fighting efforts, but no other injuries have been reported.

Beulah resident Zakary Bruce shared his experience of evacuation as the fire spread rapidly. “The next day, I found out from my neighbor that it was gone entirely,” Bruce said concerning his property. “The house, the land, my old car, even the guest cabin and shop were all leveled, either from the blaze itself or the propane tank exploding from the pure heat and cinders of the wildfire.” Personal belongings and several years’ worth of memories were lost within mere minutes.

The Aspen Acres Fire is one of nine major wildfires in Colorado. Another significant blaze, the Big Sheep Fire, is located further south in Huerfano County and has consumed more than 1,100 acres, as reported by the governor’s office.