OGDEN, Utah (ABC4) — New details have been released regarding Sunday morning’s fire in Ogden, now called the “9th Street Fire.” Preliminary investigation shows that the fire was caused by illegal fireworks set off after hours.
Shortly after 12:30 a.m. on July 6, a fast-moving grass fire broke out near the 9th Street trailhead and Maxfield Drive. The blaze threatened nearby homes, according to Ogden Fire.
Strong winds and dry vegetation reportedly caused the fire to spread quickly toward residential areas. Fire crews responded to the scene as fire was “rapidly approaching homes,” officials said. Firefighters immediately took action to protect structures, reportedly placing themselves between the fire and the homes.
Wildland crews worked to stop the fire from spreading into other neighborhoods, while emergency management teams helped displaced residents. Ogden Police officers helped with evacuations.
Several homes were damaged in the fire, while one home was rendered uninhabitable. Most residents were able to return home a few hours later. The American Red Cross is helping the family affected by the total loss.
In total, over 50 firefighters and 22 units were involved in bringing this fire under control. Fire crews will stay on site for the next few days to monitor hot spots and ensure the area remains safe.
The preliminary investigation confirms the fire was caused by illegal fireworks that were ignited in a restricted area and after legal discharge hours had ended. Ogden Fire reportedly had extra patrols on duty through midnight on July 4 and July 5, but the fire began after the patrols ended.
This incident is under active investigation. The public is urged to avoid the affected area, including all trails in the burn zone. The public is also asked to follow all firework safety laws, including discharge restrictions and permitted times.
“Ogden City Fire Department extends its thanks to all assisting agencies and to the community for its cooperation during this emergency,” a press release from Ogden Fire states.
The following agencies responded to this fire:
- Ogden City Fire Department
- Weber Fire District
- North View Fire District
- South Ogden Fire Department
- Washington Terrace Fire Department
- Davis County Wildland Strike Team (including South Weber, Layton City, and Clinton
City Fire Departments
No further information is available at this time.