SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. — The Gate Fire, burning north of Scottsdale in the Rio Verde area, forced the evacuation of some homes Thursday afternoon, officials said. As of Friday, the Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Management was able to stop the fire's forward progress, they said.
"Crews have stopped the fire's forward progress at approximately 75 acres," the department said in a press release.
All evacuations have been lifted as of Friday morning.
The fire is located near 128th Street and Rio Verde Drive, just 2 miles northeast of the Tom's Thumb Trailhead. Scottsdale fire previously said the flames burned about 100 acres and around 150 firefighters were working to contain the blaze.
Four large air tankers were called in to support firefighting efforts. Over the next few days, crews will focus their efforts on securing the fire line and mopping up any remaining hot spots.
The occupants of two homes and some construction crews were evacuated from the area, according to fire officials.
Craig Ahlheim said he was one of those evacuated.
“It was extraordinarily scary,” he said.
While in his backyard Ahlheim noticed smoke off in the distance. Then he said it quickly got closer and closer to his home.
“Flames were at least 20 feet high," Ahlheim said. "It was unbelievable."
No structural damage has been reported. The regional park in the area will remain closed due to fire activity and active firefighting efforts.
Crews are working to establish a containment perimeter around the Gate fire. It has moved into the Diamond Fire's burn scar area.
At least one firefighter is being treated for heat exhaustion.
Scottsdale fire will be investigating how the fire started.
12News will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as more information becomes available.
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