Electrocuted birds spark rapidly spreading bushfire near Denver water treatment plant
ROXBOROUGH, Colorado β A group of birds were unfortunately electrocuted when they collided with electrical equipment on Tuesday afternoon, sparking a wildfire that scorched 35 acres of land in Colorado.
According to West Metro Fire Rescue officials, the flock of birds caught fire after the incident, creating a spark that eventually set fire to nearby grass and brush in Roxborough, near Denver Water’s Foothills Wastewater Treatment Plant.
Dozens of firefighters responded to the fire and a county helicopter dropped multiple hoses on the spreading flames. Douglas County Sheriff’s officials issued voluntary evacuation orders for residents.
During the course of the evening, the forest fire was 100% contained and the order for voluntary evacuation has now been lifted.
βIt was a close call tonight!β said West Metro Fire Rescue officials.