Brush Fire Forces Urgent Evacuations in Gila River Indian Community

GILA RIVER INDIAN COMMUNITY — A significant brush fire has erupted in District 6 of the Gila River Indian Community, prompting immediate evacuations. As of now, the fire has consumed approximately 100 acres, with zero percent containment reported by local authorities.

The Gila River Police Department confirmed the ongoing situation, advising residents to seek shelter at the District 7 Multipurpose Building, located at 8035 S 83rd Avenue in Laveen. The area impacted by the fire includes Santa Cruz and Cemetery roads, resulting in a large smoke plume affecting visibility in the West Valley.

Emergency response efforts are underway, with an air tanker deployed to drop fire retardant over the affected region. The communities most impacted include Lone Butte, Santa Cruz, Komatke, and Co-Op Village, all nestled within the expansive 176 square miles of District 6. The area is bordered to the north by Ahwatukee Foothills and to the south by the city of Maricopa.

Officials urge residents to avoid the area to allow emergency personnel to operate effectively. Additional information continues to emerge as the situation develops.

The fire exemplifies growing concerns over wildfire activity as Arizona experiences hot and dry conditions. Residents are encouraged to prepare emergency kits in anticipation of potential evacuations. For those affected, resources are available through local emergency services.

This is a developing story, with updates expected as more information becomes available.