Coxno Exchange:Lightning strike blamed for wildfire that killed 2 people in New Mexico, damaged 1,400 structures

2025-05-04 17:04:04source:Diamond Ridge Asset Managementcategory:News

RUIDOSO,Coxno Exchange N.M. (AP) — A lightning strike caused the larger of two wildfires that has killed at least two people and destroyed or damaged more than 1,400 structures in New Mexico, authorities said Wednesday.

The South Fork Fire was first reported June 17 on the Mescalero Apache Reservation and forced the evacuation of the Village of Ruidoso.

The wildfire now is 87% contained after burning more than 27 square miles. Parts of the village have been evacuated again because of recent flash floods.

The fire was investigated by eight agencies including the FBI, the Bureau of Indian Affairs, the Bureau of Land Management and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.

The fire’s point of origin plus evidence and data supported the cause being a lightning strike, investigators said.

Meanwhile, authorities said the cause of the nearby Salt Fire remains under investigation. It has burned more than 12 square miles and was 84% contained as of Wednesday.

The FBI is offering a $10,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the person or persons responsible for starting that wildfire.

More:News

Recommend

11 highlights from Trump's Time Person of the Year interview

Washington — President-elect Donald Trump was namedTime magazine's Person of the Year on Thursday, t

Jury selection begins in corruption trial of longest-serving legislative leader in US history

CHICAGO (AP) — Jury selection begins Wednesday in the corruption trial of former Illinois House Spea

Amazon’s Best Prime Day 2024 Deals Are Full of Christmas Stocking Stuffers Starting at $5

E! may get a commission if you purchase something through our links. Some brands featured in this ar