News

Actions

Quail Hollow fire 60 percent contained; caused by underground transformer explosion

Posted at 10:14 AM, Sep 01, 2015
and last updated 2015-09-02 15:00:11-04

COTTONWOOD HEIGHTS, Utah - The Quail Hollow fire in Cottonwood Heights is about 60 percent contained after burning about 30 acres.

Firefighters are watching for hot spots and plan to reopen roads in the area Wednesday.

The fire threatened more than 60 homes during the day and 30 homes were evacuated for about 5 hours.

“[They] came out here for people they don’t even know and protected our homes. There`s no damage to our homes, none. I’m so grateful,” said Pam Gomez, who lives near the fire.

Unified Fire Authority said Wasatch Blvd. between 9000 S. and 9800 S. will be closed again Wednesday for fire apparatus.

Unified officials said an underground electrical transformer exploded and sparked the blaze at 9322 S. Wasatch Blvd. near 3500 E. Tuesday morning at about 10 a.m.

Officials said more than 115 firefighters were working to contain the 20-acre Quail Hollow fire at one point.

Air support, including two Black Hawks, dropped fire retardant and water and more than 30 fire engines were working to put out the fire.

The FAA issued flight restrictions in the area and warned residents to keep the drones at home.