Vegetation fire threatened homes, businesses in Merced, fire officials say

A large vegetation fire on Wednesday threatened businesses and residences along East Childs Avenue in the southeast corner of Merced.

Merced City Fire Department firefighters were dispatched to Crist Avenue, just north of East Childs Avenue, at about 10 a.m. Wednesday, according to Battalion Chief Mickey Brunelli.

No injuries were reported and the cause of the fire remains under investigation.

Units arrived on scene to find about a quarter acre of grass on fire. Firefighters initiated a fire attack and additional units were requested, according to fire officials.

According to Brunelli, the fire was located in a hay field that had been cut, however, the hay had not been bailed.

Brunelli said wind conditions early on did create some issues for firefighters as they attempted to contain the fire.

“Due to the wind conditions, the fire did make a significant push towards the structures on the other end of the field,” Brunelli said

Thirteen engines, several water tenders and several chief officers responded to assist, according to Brunelli.

Firefighters gained control of the fire with minimal damage to one structure, Brunelli said.

The fire consumed a total of about 25 to 30 acres of vegetation. Fire personnel from Cal Fire also responded, according to Brunelli.

This story was originally published May 6, 2020 at 1:26 PM.