Aspen Acres Fire Destroys Homes and Prompts Evacuations in Southern Colorado

The Aspen Acres Fire in southern Colorado has wreaked havoc, destroying 55 homes in Custer County and over 100 structures in Pueblo County. As reported by authorities, the wildfire has expanded to 28,314 acres as of Tuesday afternoon and remains completely uncontained. Pueblo County Sheriff David J. Lucero noted that crews are working tirelessly to slow the fire’s progress and protect residential areas.

Mandatory evacuations are affecting the towns of Beulah, Rye, and San Isabel. An evacuation center is available at Pueblo County Parks and Recreation located at 1650 Cooper Place in Pueblo. Those with large animals can bring them to the Colorado State Fairgrounds for safe keeping. Further updates on evacuations can be accessed at pueblosheriff.org.

In a statement, Lucero expressed deep concern for the affected communities: “Our thoughts are with every family, business owner, rancher, and resident impacted by the Aspen Acres Fire. We understand the stress and emotional toll this situation has imposed. Our community’s safety and well-being remain our highest priority.”

To combat the blaze, authorities have deployed eight air tankers and other aerial resources. The origin of the fire remains unknown. One firefighter sustained injuries while battling the flames, but no other injuries have been reported so far.

Beulah resident Zakary Bruce shared his experience of having to evacuate rapidly as the fire advanced. Later, he learned that his home was completely destroyed. “The next day, I found out from my neighbor that it was gone entirely,” Bruce shared. “The house, the land, my old car, even the guest cabin and shop were all leveled, either from the blaze itself or the propane tank exploding from the pure heat and cinders of the wildfire.” According to Bruce, his personal belongings and memories spanning several years were reduced to ashes in just 30 minutes.

The Aspen Acres Fire is one of nine major wildfires burning in Colorado on Tuesday. Another significant fire, the Big Sheep Fire, is located in Huerfano County and has burned more than 1,100 acres, as reported by the governor’s office.