Range Fire Update Oct. 19, 2020

For Immediate Release

Contact: Suzie Tenhagen (385) 329-6957

October 19, 2020

Summary: Fire activity on the Range Fire was minimal overnight, growth was significantly slowed by natural features. Firefighters completed a successful burn out operation last night to secure the southeast corner of the fire. Today, firefighters will be constructing hand line directly along the western perimeter of the fire. Crews will continue to mop up along the heel of the fire. Aircraft will assist ground resources by dropping water on hot spots as needed in areas where the terrain is too steep for firefighters to safely access.

Investigators have determined that the human-caused Range Fire originated at the Orem Police Gun Range and was caused by target shooting. The Orem Police Officer who was present when the fire started is cooperating with officials. The investigation is on-going; more information will be released as it comes available.

Start Date: October 17, 2020

Location: 3 miles north of the mouth of Provo Canyon

Cause: Target shooting

Fire Size & Containment: 3,450 acres, 10% contained

Complexity: Type 3 Incident Command Organization

Jurisdiction: State, private and Forest Service

Fire Behavior: Minimal fire activity with isolated torching within the fire perimeter

Structures Threatened: Yes

Evacuations: All residents in Sundance are under a Pre-Evacuation notice.

Closures: Hwy 189 is open; one right lane remains closed traveling westbound from mile post 14, the SR-92 junction, to 800 North in Orem for firefighter safety. Please drive with caution in the area. SR-92 is closed in both directions from Hwy 189 to the turn off for SR-114 Cascade Springs Rd, only local traffic is allowed through.

Fuels and Terrain: Steep terrain burning in grass, brush, oak and pine.  

Resources: 150 personnel assigned

For more information on fires in Utah, visit www.UtahFireInfo.gov

For more information on fires across the country, visit https://inciweb.nwcg.gov