Hays Fire Department
At 3:34 pm on April 26, 2021, The Hays Fire Department was dispatched to a reported structure fire in the 1100 block of Pinehurst. Fire crews arrived on scene within a few minutes and found a grass fire next to a home in the 1100 block of Country Club Drive.
The fire quickly spread to bushes, trees, a wooden fence and two homes. The fire then spread across the alley and caught another house on fire and a couple outbuildings. A total of 4 homes were involved and 2 homes received significant fire and smoke damage.
Several small grass and mulch fires were found 2 blocks away from where the fire originated and were quickly extinguished.
Fire crews stayed on scene in the area for several hours checking each structure multiple times for any signs of rekindling.
The most probable cause of the fire was an improperly discarded cigarette.
The Hays Fire Department was assisted by the Ellis County Fire Department, Victoria Fire Department, Ellis County EMS and the Hays Police Department.
One firefighter received minor injuries and was treated by Ellis County EMS on scene and returned to work.
The Hays Fire Department would like to thank the area residents for their quick actions by calling 911 and their cooperation. Incidents like these are a good reminder for everyone to make sure your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are working properly.
We would also like to remind everyone to make sure your yards are clear of any unwanted leaves, pine needles and unnecessary storage of other items. This material can lead to rapid fire spread.
Original story:
By JAMES BELL
Hays Post
At about 3:30 p.m. Hays Fire Department crews responded to a reported house fire in the area of Pinehurst Street and El Dorado Lane in Hays.
As crews were fighting the original fire, it appeared to spread to a neighboring home.
At least one more fire was extinguished in a nearby alley as strong winds blew embers throughout the area.
Hays Police Department was also on scene, blocking traffic in the immediate area.
Scanner traffic indicated a firefighter was injured during the operation.
This is a developing story and will be updated as more information becomes available.