Cumberland County fire spans 300 acres, forces some to evacuate homes

As of Wednesday afternoon, Vander Fire Chief Richard Bradshaw said the fire burned 300 acres of land. Ten families in the area were evacuated before being allowed back in their homes.

Wednesday morning, smoke lingered and some areas were still smoldering. The county said the fire was about 60 percent contained on Wednesday evening.

“The fire is still burning. It is about 60% containment at this point,” said Michael Good, the District 6 Forester with N.C. Forest Service. “We are using bulldozers to install containment lines, which cuts off fuel for the fire and prevents it from spreading.”

The cause is under investigation. One house suffered minor damage, and a boat was destroyed in the fire. The home had a propane tank nearby, but crews cooled the tank to prevent an explosion.

According to Cumberland County emergency management coordinator Gary Crumpler, the fire started around 4 p.m. Tuesday at at 4918 Dudley Road.

"Conditions are right for the fire to continue to burn and escalate with the potential of jumping up a couple of fire lines," Bradshaw said.

The forestry service used plows to widen fire lines cut in the woods.

The WRAL Weather team said the high winds and low humidity on Tuesday caused an increased risk for fires. Fayetteville had wind gust of 37 miles per hour, the highest in the area, which have contributed to the spread of the fire.

Crews with more than 60 responders showed up to put out the fire. Neighbors were relieved that no major damage occurred and that no one was hurt.

"We've been out here for four years and we've had a few pop-up fires here and there, but nothing like last night," said Kathy Custer. "My property isn't even scorched. All I can do is thank God for that."

Crews were still fighting the fire at 10 p.m. on Tuesday, and nearly 30 units from nearly a dozen fire departments in Cumberland and Bladen counties, as well as the Cumberland County Sheriff's Office, N.C. Forest Service, State Highway Patrol and the N.C. Department of Transportation are at the scene.

The American Red Cross is assisting with people affected by the fire. Heavy smoke will likely be in the area for several days. Officials advise those in the area to not burn trash or debris until conditions improve.

Dudley Road has been closed between McKinnon Road and Mack Simmons Road. Residents are encouraged to avoid the area for their safety and the safety of first responders.