A grass fire that burned 650 acres on mostly private property and came close to one family’s farm near Wellington appears to be “human caused,” according to the Larimer County Sheriff’s Office.
Fire crews worked throught the night and early this morning in mop-up operations. The fire is currently 90 percent contained.
The fire broke out around noon in the area of Vesta Lane and County Road 9. Hot, dry and windy conditions swept the fire near a farm owned by Thomas and Rose Bricker. The Brickers were able to get their horses away from the flames but a small shed burned as well as some fence posts, according to officials.
The sheriff’s office said the cause is still under investigation but was likely started by a person.
About 63 emergency notifications, advising area residents within a two-mile radius of the fire to be ready to evacuate themselves and animals if needed, were sent out. However, no evacuations were needed, officials said.
No injuries were reported.
Monte Whaley: 720-929-0907 or mwhaley@denverpost.com
