Dozens of homes destroyed in Stillwater wildfires
STILLWATER, Okla. (KFOR) — Multiple wildfires destroyed parts of Stillwater, causing major devastation. The mayor declared a state of emergency for the city on Saturday.
City leaders believe up to 50 structures are destroyed, but that number could change as they observe the damage.
Oklahoma governor declares an emergency declaration after widespread wildfire damage
'I've lived in Oklahoma all my life and I've always been cautious and understanding of the destruction of tornadoes and flash floods. But I never would have expected the fire could have devastated and done this damage to so many houses,' said Jacob Freeman, who lives in the Pecan Hill neighborhood.
The community in Stillwater is heartbroken over the loss of many homes from wildfires that spread fast throughout parts of the city.
'Your community on fire is a very unsettling thing and it's something a fire chief never wants to experience,' said Terry Essary, the Chief for the Stillwater Fire Department.
The fires forced evacuations as firefighters worked hard to put them out.
'I get closer and I'm like, oh my gosh, you need to leave, like now. And so he panics, grabs all the animals with the cat, too, and all the court documents and gets out,' said Jo Caldwell, who also lives in the Pecan Hill Neighborhood.
However, as people started to leave, the fear of the unknown sunk in.
Dry conditions, powerful winds brought a wildfire outbreak to parts of Oklahoma
'It was really scary overnight, not really knowing what was happening,' said Caldwell.
'Trying to mentally plan on if you're even coming back to anything,' said Freeman.
The fires left an eerie sight in the neighborhood and for many Oklahomans, the physical memory of their home is now left only in their heart.
As the community prepares for what's next, the city stands on being 'Stillwater Strong.'
'We're strong because of the community cohesion and these groups that come together when… when we need to assist and support each other,' said Will Joyce, Mayor of Stillwater.
There is a donation link on the United Way Payne County page if you'd like to help those affected by the fires.
Fire crews said they're still monitoring hot spots in case any new fires ignite.
Stillwater police will also be adding patrols to impacted areas.
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
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