A wildfire dubbed the Corky fire erupted Thursday in the 3400 block of State Highway 64, just south of Wills Point, Texas. Heavy grass and brush fueled the blaze, which quickly spread across the roadside.
Coordinated response brings fire under control
The Wills Point Fire Department arrived to find multiple flames racing along the highway. Within minutes, fire departments and emergency agencies from Van Zandt County, Kaufman County and surrounding areas mobilized under a mutual‑aid agreement.
Firefighters from Wood and Henderson counties—including units from Winnsboro, Yantis, Quitman, Prairieville and the North 19 Volunteer Fire Department—joined the effort, allowing some initial responders to stand down as the operation expanded.
Injuries and medical support
Five firefighters required medical treatment during the incident. Four have been released, while one firefighter with a heat‑related injury remained in stable condition at a Canton hospital.
Christus Mother Frances EMS transported the injured to a local hospital, and an Emergency Medical Task Force from Longview, equipped with quick‑response vehicles and an ambulance, stayed on scene to assist with any further needs.
Containment achieved
By Friday morning, the Texas A&M Forest Service reported the fire was 100% contained, with roughly 659 acres burned. Six fire engines and a bulldozer continued mop‑up operations and reinforced containment lines.
Residents who had been ordered to evacuate were notified they could safely return to their homes.
Investigation ongoing
Investigators have not yet confirmed the fire’s cause, though officials believe it originated along the State Highway 64 right‑of‑way. The Texas A&M Forest Service is sending an investigator to assist the Van Zandt County Fire Marshal’s Office.
The Van Zandt County Sheriff’s Office credited the coordinated effort of local departments, neighboring agencies and state partners for protecting lives and property.
Meanwhile, the Ross fire in Palo Pinto County continues to burn, with more than 85,000 acres affected and only 26% containment as of Friday morning.
Original reporting: WBAP News/Talk (Dallas-Fort Worth) — read the source article.
