DES MOINES, Iowa — Crews battled a large brush fire Wednesday night in between McHenry Park and Riverview Park.
The fire spread across five acres of land. Responders say the wind was a big factor in helping the fire grow. Thankfully, the flames didn't reach the park structure, instead staying in a grassy area.
Fire crews were on scene just before 7 p.m. When they arrived, they called for a brush truck, which enables firefighters to enter smaller places and go further off road.
Des Moines Fire Department Lt. Rick Thomas told Local 5 the cause of the fire was likely from a homeless encampment.
"The firefighters said that this crew has been here three times since fall this year already," Thomas said. "So right now, when I was down there, there's a certain type of grass that's 12-15 feet high which also adds to the fire."
No one was injured in the fire and the encampment didn't sustain any damage.
The fire was extinguished within about an hour, but crews left just before 9 p.m. as they walked through the scene to ensure the flames were entirely put out.
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