Brownwood News – At least one structure has been lost in the 1,200 acres that burned after a wildfire blazed in Zephyr on Monday. Former Early Police Chief Junior Pinson’s home was destroyed. Texas Forestry Officials explained the cause of the fire is still under investigation.

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According to Brownwood Fire Chief Eddy Wood, some areas are still “smoldering” and crews are still working to fully extinguish any hot spots. All evacuation orders have been lifted, but caution is still encouraged. The fire was considered 50 percent contained as of 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday.

Debbie Pinson, Junior’s wife, reported she saw smoke when she pulled into their driveway on CR 2159 yesterday afternoon. Junior was home and managed to get out safely. The couple had already been through tough times, as Junior was diagnosed with leukemia seven years ago.

Firefighters from 20 departments have worked nonstop through the night to extinguish the fire that threatened the Orica USA explosives plant in Zephyr and caused the entire town to be evacuated. The evacuations were partially lifted Monday night, and had been entirely lifted by Tuesday morning.

Fire in some areas continued to burn Tuesday and over 20 structures remained threatened. The Texas A&M Forest Service and units of the Texas Intrastate Fire Mutual Aid System (TIFMAS) are helping local fire departments fight the fire.

A community outpouring of donations has kept firefighters stocked with food, drinks and other needed supplies.

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