A fast-moving brush fire near Wickenburg forced evacuations, damaged property, and shut down a major stretch of U.S. 60 as firefighters worked to contain flames spreading through the Hassayampa River Bottom area.
The wildfire, identified as the Jones Fire, broke out southeast of Wickenburg on Sunday and quickly expanded because of dry vegetation, gusty winds, and dangerous fire conditions across the region. Fire crews said the blaze burned along both sides of U.S. 60 near milepost 111, prompting authorities to close the highway in both directions for several hours.
According to the Wickenburg Fire Department and emergency officials, residents in nearby areas were placed under “GO” evacuation status as flames threatened homes, RV parks, and structures near the riverbed. Officials ordered evacuations from areas stretching from U.S. 93 to Zabel Mine Road and locations west and east of U.S. 60 near the railroad tracks.
Emergency responders said the wildfire rapidly intensified and at one point burned approximately 15 acres near the highway corridor, though crews continued battling shifting fire conditions throughout the day.
The fire also caused major traffic disruptions for drivers traveling between the Phoenix area and northwestern Arizona. U.S. 60 closures created long backups as authorities urged motorists to avoid the area entirely and seek alternate routes while firefighters worked near the roadway.
Several RVs and structures were reportedly destroyed or heavily damaged as flames spread into portions of a nearby RV park. Fire officials later estimated that between eight and 10 RV homes had been lost in the fire. Residents forced to evacuate described fleeing quickly as smoke and flames moved dangerously close to their homes and vehicles.
The American Red Cross opened an emergency shelter at Wickenburg High School to assist displaced residents and anyone impacted by the evacuations. Officials said evacuees could access temporary shelter, food, and assistance services at the site while crews continued firefighting operations.
As firefighters gained additional control over portions of the blaze, some highway restrictions were partially lifted later in the day. However, authorities warned residents and travelers that conditions could continue changing rapidly depending on weather, wind patterns, and fire behavior.
Emergency officials continued urging residents in evacuation zones to remain alert and prepared for possible changes to evacuation statuses as crews monitored flare-ups and hot spots around the burn area.
Authorities have not yet announced an official cause for the Jones Fire. Investigators are expected to examine the origin of the blaze once conditions become safe enough for a full investigation.
Source: 12News
