Aspen Acres Fire razes 55 homes in Colorado, over 100 structures damaged

The Aspen Acres Fire ignited in southern Colorado, scorching 28,314 acres and remaining 0% contained. The blaze destroyed 55 homes in Custer County and more than 100 structures in Pueblo County, prompting mandatory evacuations of Beulah, Rye and San Isabel.

Pueblo County Sheriff David J. Lucero set up an evacuation center at Pueblo County Parks and Recreation and directed residents with large animals to the Colorado State Fairgrounds. Eight air tankers and other aircraft are battling the fire, though its cause is still unknown. One firefighter was injured; no other injuries have been reported. Residents described total loss of homes and personal belongings within minutes of the fire’s spread.