When the Gracemont wildfire ignited in Caddo County last week, it quickly threatened homes north of the small town of Gracemont. One resident, Jada, described the sudden boom, thick smoke and the frantic scramble to get her family to safety.
Family’s close‑call
Jada was feeding chickens on her property when she heard a loud explosion and saw a wall of smoke rolling toward her. “I was out here feeding chickens and just heard a big boom, and looked that way and saw that smoke,” she recalled.
She estimated the fire roared to within less than 100 yards of her house on 2670 Road near Highway 152. Her husband was the first to dial 911, while her brother, an ex‑military member, raced down the road urging neighbors to evacuate.
Local responders mobilize
Air support arrived quickly, with planes and helicopters circling the area. “My son came. He works for the BIA. He’s a wildland firefighter,” Jada said, noting the presence of federal and state crews.
The National Interagency Fire Center reported the blaze is now 99 % contained after burning just under 2,700 acres and destroying more than 30 structures, including several homes.
Community response
Neighbors banded together, helping each other load belongings into trucks and guiding families to the designated evacuation center. Volunteers, many of whom had once been Jada’s students, assisted in protecting remaining structures and clearing debris.
“My other brother was going down the road trying to tell everyone to evacuate, and he’s ex‑military, so it really was making him panic,” Jada added, highlighting the urgency felt by residents.
Looking ahead
With containment nearly complete, officials are assessing damage and planning recovery efforts. Local fire departments are urging homeowners to review evacuation plans and maintain defensible space around properties to reduce future risk.
Jada’s family, though shaken, expressed gratitude for the swift response of firefighters and the support of their community. “My mom lives up the hill with my stepdad, and my brother lives up this hill, so we’re all right here together, all three of us,” she said, underscoring the importance of family unity during crises.
Original reporting: Oklahoma City News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
