Bush Fire Grows, Part Of State Route 87 Remains Closed

A brush fire named the Bush Fire has grown to 7,745 acres and has closed State Route 87 from State Route 188 to the Bush Highway.

Authorities released information that the fire is currently 0% contained, was human-caused and remains under investigation, Tonto National Forest officials said in a press release.

“Infrastructure protection for State Highway 87, powerlines, private property, and sensitive recreation and heritage resources are priorities for firefighting.”

A Type 2 Southwest Incident Management Team has been assigned to the fire.

Tonto National Forest announced Sunday morning that the recreation sites of Saguaro Lake, Butcher Jones and Pobrecito recreation have been closed due to the growing blaze. Heavy smoky conditions are being experienced in the Lower Salt area.

On Sunday, 11 engines, 3 hotshot crews, 2 helicopters and 1 air attack were assigned as they worked to contain the blaze.

Currently, there is no estimated expectations on when the highway will reopen. Travelers are encouraged to reroute to the US 60 and State Route 188 through Globe.

Officials reported that currently no structures are threatened.

According to ADOT, the fire started Saturday night and immediately resulted in the closure of State Route 87 near Fountain Hills.

According to the Tonto National Forest, the Bush Fire started around 2 p.m. and had burned 600 acres as of Saturday evening. After the fire crossed the highway, the fire burned along Four Peaks Road and headed north toward the Sugarloaf Recreation area.