BLOOMINGTON – On Wednesday evening, firefighters responded to a significant wildland fire near Lake Monroe, prompted by a resident’s report of smoke in the vicinity of East Concord Drive off State Road 46 East. The call came in just before 5:30 p.m., leading the Monroe Fire Protection District to dispatch units to the scene.
Upon arrival, firefighters met with a property manager from the Department of Natural Resources, who indicated that the fire was potentially located off East Rogers Road, close to the North Fork Wildlife Refuge.
Crews proceeded to the 5300 block of South McGown Road, where they encountered a rapidly progressing fire in a densely wooded area. High winds, complicating containment efforts, fueled the flames. However, firefighters could leverage the terrain, as the fire was between two gravel roads, which helped them contain two sides of the blaze.
Thanks to their quick actions, crews established a fire line and ultimately contained the fire, which burned approximately 15-17 acres. Following containment, firefighters focused on extinguishing hot spots and reinforcing their fire lines to prevent further flare-ups.
Twenty-five firefighters responded to the incident, including six from the Indiana Department of Natural Resources. The cause of the fire remains under investigation.
Authorities urge residents to remain vigilant and report any signs of smoke or fire to help prevent future incidents.
