May 31, 2020
Photographs by Judy Conklin
The Ocotillo Fire in Cave Creek burned 10 houses, numerous other structures, 1,216- acres and prompted the mandatory evacuations of 500 homes. No human fatalities or injuries have been reported.
The fire, which has been judged to be human caused, started about 2 p.m. on Saturday, May 31 and was 100 percent contained by 8 a.m. Sunday morning. Hot temperatures and dry conditions fueled the blaze.
The brush fire began east of Cave Creek Road in Cave Creek, near 5500 Ocotillo Road and the Rancho Manana Golf Course. Fire crews from across the Valley fought the fire with an assist from helicopters carrying water buckets, a DC-9 tanker dropping fire retardant and scout planes. Helicopters used water from Rancho Manana’s pool to fill their water buckets prior to drops.
The area is home to many horse farms and properties. Saturday afternoon vehicles pulling horse trailers were seen streaming out of Spur Cross Road. Horses were sheltered at local rodeo grounds and other nearby locations. Cactus Shadows High School was used a shelter for evacuated residents.
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