Bandera faced a challenging weekend as three separate fires swept through the area, all attributed to human error, according to Fire Marshal Jason Rutherford.
The most destructive blaze began Friday, March 14, when a fire ignited by burning rubber tires spread rapidly. Originating near Old San Antonio Loop and Hunters Road, the fire tore through Circle Drive and reached Pony Road, destroying 11 structures and displacing up to seven families.
“The cattle-grazed grass was what saved us,” Rutherford said. “The grass was short enough to help us contain it.”
The cause of the tire fire remains under investigation, with Rutherford urging the public to disregard speculation on social media.
“This is actively under investigation. We have persons of interest, and we are moving forward,” he said.
Fire departments across Bandera County, including the Pipe Creek Volunteer Fire Department, battled the flames with assistance from two aerial retardant drops and a strike team stationed in Kerrville.
More than 100 firefighters responded, supported by five brush trucks. Included in that responding force were EMS, law enforcement, state and local firefighters.
Earlier that day, crews had extinguished a separate fire at a solar farm near FM 3240, caused by a construction crew installing fencing.
A third fire broke out Sunday night, spreading from Ricky Drive to Casey Lane.
“We were able to save four homes,” Rutherford said. “No injuries the entire weekend, thank God. My crew was out there until 11 p.m. last night. A lot of them are battling sinus infections from the smoke.”
Rutherford emphasized the importance of adhering to fire restrictions during red flag warnings.
“Each of these fires were due to human error,” he said. “We really need people to stop welding, grinding, burning tires or trash until we get more rain. Even barbecues should be held off, especially if it is a woodfire pit. I’m really pleading to the public here to take this seriously.”
The American Red Cross and Silver Sage Hill Country Resource Center are providing housing assistance for displaced residents, with monetary donations encouraged.
Clothing and other physical donations are on hold. Donations can be made at silversage.org.
Other organizations, including Out of the Way Community Corp., have also stepped in to help.
The Pipe Creek Volunteer Fire Department was unavailable for comment as they continue to assist with fire response efforts in Kendall County.
A red flag warning remains in effect for Bandera until further notice. For updates on burn bans, visit banderacounty.org.
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