Crabapple Fire now 65% contained, firefighters make progress

FREDERICKSBURG, TX — Fire crews from across the region have made significant progress in containing the Crabapple Fire burning near Fredericksburg, with containment now at 65 percent, according to the latest update from the Texas A&M Forest Service.

The wildfire, which has burned an estimated 9,737 acres, continues to be fought by local, state, and national crews. The affected area stretches from Lower Crabapple to Farm-to-Market Road 1631.

“Crews worked the edges of the fire and any flare ups during the night,” Fredericksburg Fire Chief Lynn Bizzell said. “The southeast corner of the affected area is our focus today with the forecasted wind.”

Officials warn that many trees are still burning throughout the area and dropping embers into unburned areas, which could ignite more fire under today’s conditions. A Red Flag Warning is in effect from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday, with south winds expected at 10-20 mph, gusts up to 35 mph, and low humidity between 10-20 percent.

One Fredericksburg firefighter was injured Sunday when a tree limb fell, causing injury. The firefighter was treated at a hospital and has since been released.

All roads have reopened as of 7:30 a.m. Monday, though officials ask the public to avoid the area unless travel is necessary. Those who have evacuated are advised not to return to their homes yet.

The fire, which started around 1 p.m. on Saturday, March 15, near 8700 Lower Crabapple Road, has impacted local ranchers and livestock owners in Gillespie County. A livestock supply point has been established at the Gillespie County Fairgrounds to collect hay, feed, and fencing supplies for affected cattle, sheep, and goats.

For those looking to help, officials have partnered with the OneStar Foundation and Rebuild Texas to establish the Crabapple Disaster Fund. Donations can be made at https://onestarfoundation.org/crabapple-fire-relief-fund/.

The Red Cross has opened a shelter at Zion Lutheran Church at 426 W. Main St. in Fredericksburg, which is currently serving five displaced people.