Firefighters from the Marathon Volunteer Fire Department (MVFD) and Alpine Volunteer Fire Department (AVFD) worked through the night to contain a major structure fire that broke out on South 6th Street shortly after 1:00 a.m. on October 21.
MVFD responded with four apparatus and ten personnel. Upon arrival, crews discovered two structures and one RV fully engulfed, with flames spreading to a nearby fence and threatening a home across the alley.
Engine 41 quickly knocked down the extension while Brush 41, 42, and 43 crews attacked the main fire. During the initial response, firefighters discovered a propane tank in close proximity to the blaze, which they promptly disconnected and moved to safety.
After about an hour of intense firefighting, MVFD and AVFD achieved a full knockdown. Alpine units then assisted with mop-up operations until around 5:30 a.m., while Marathon crews remained on scene until 10:00 a.m. to extinguish hot spots and prevent rekindles.
MVFD expressed gratitude to Alpine Fire, as well as Brewster County Sheriff’s Office Deputies Prieto, Thomas, and Lara for their assistance. The department also asked the community to keep Firefighter Tim Thayer in their thoughts and prayers as he navigates a difficult personal time.
All trucks were rehabbed and returned to service later that morning.
