Aspen Acres Fire Destroys Homes in Southern Colorado

The Aspen Acres Fire has severely impacted southern Colorado, destroying 55 homes in Custer County and over 100 structures in Pueblo County, according to officials. The blaze has expanded to 28,314 acres as of Tuesday afternoon and remains 0% contained. Pueblo County Sheriff David J. Lucero stated in a news conference that crews are making extensive efforts to slow the fire and safeguard residences.

Mandatory evacuations are ongoing, covering the towns of Beulah, Rye, and San Isabel. An evacuation center has been set up at Pueblo County Parks and Recreation, located at 1650 Cooper Place in Pueblo. Those with large animals can transport them to the Colorado State Fairgrounds. For the most current evacuation updates, visit pueblosheriff.org.

“Our thoughts are with every family, business owner, rancher, and resident affected by the Aspen Acres Fire,” Lucero expressed. “This has been a tremendously stressful and emotional period. Many have evacuated, uncertain of what they will find upon return. We prioritize the safety and well-being of our community.”

In combating the fire on Tuesday, eight air tankers were among the aircraft deployed. The cause of the wildfire remains unknown. A firefighter sustained injuries while battling the blaze, but no further casualties have been reported.

Beulah resident Zakary Bruce shared his experience of evacuation. He had to leave quickly as the fire intensified, and learned later that his home was entirely destroyed. “The next day, a neighbor informed me that everything was gone,” Bruce recounted. “The house, the land, my old car, even the guest cabin and shop were either burnt or exploded due to the extreme heat.”

“All possessions inside, reduced to metal slag or ashes. Years of memories vanished in 30 minutes,” he added.

The Aspen Acres Fire is one of nine significant wildfires burning in Colorado. The Big Sheep Fire, also affecting the state, is located further south in Huerfano County, burning over 1,100 acres, as reported by the governor’s office.