3 Firefighters Hurt as N.M. Wildland Fire Grows

April 19, 2011
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. -- Firefighters said they are working to control a wildfire that has burned 17,000 acres along Highway 267 in Curry County. The fire burned a line about 20 miles long and 1.5 miles wide between Melrose and Floyd. It's moving west. Crews said the fire is 50 percent contained. Three homes have already been destroyed and others are in danger. Evacuations are in the works for homes along Highway 467 at the Roosevelt County line.

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. --

Firefighters said they are working to control a wildfire that has burned 17,000 acres along Highway 267 in Curry County.

The fire burned a line about 20 miles long and 1.5 miles wide between Melrose and Floyd. It's moving west.

Crews said the fire is 50 percent contained. Three homes have already been destroyed and others are in danger.

Evacuations are in the works for homes along Highway 467 at the Roosevelt County line.

Fire officials said the blaze sparked when a vehicle blew a tire and sparks from the rim landed in nearby grass.

Around 30 fire engines from Roosevelt and Curry Counties are battling the blaze with state forestry crews. Three firefighters were treated for smoke inhalation and minor burns on Sunday. All have been released from the hospital.

A FEMA grant has been approved to help pay for firefighting costs.

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