Brush fire burns 4 acres, destroys 3 structures in Pender County

PENDER COUNTY, N.C. (WECT) - Emergency crews responded to a brush fire at 7510 US Highway 117 North near Harley Drive at approximately 3:07 p.m., the Pender County Fire Marshal’s Office announced Friday.

Officials say the fire burned approximately 4 acres in a wooded area off the roadway. Three non-residential structures were destroyed. No injuries were reported.

A portion of US Highway 117 was temporarily closed to allow emergency crews to contain the fire.

Pender EMS & Fire, North Carolina Forest Service, Burgaw Fire Department, Pender County Sheriff’s Office and the Pender County Fire Marshal’s Office responded to the incident. The North Carolina Forest Service used a helicopter for water drops and a tractor plow to assist in containment.

The fire was contained and prevented from spreading further. The cause remains under investigation by the Pender County Fire Marshal’s Office.

Smoke may continue in the area through the weekend. Residents traveling through the area should use caution as visibility may be impacted.

Officials said the risk for fire remains elevated due to dry conditions. Residents are encouraged to use caution with outdoor activities that could ignite a fire.