Latest news with #MeridianFire
Yahoo
18-03-2025
- General
- Yahoo
Cat reunited with family after Meridian Fire
(COLORADO SPRINGS) — The Humane Society of the Pikes Peak Region (HSPPR) is reminding the community to always be prepared for the worst, after a cat was separated from her family during the quick-moving Meridian Fire. On Thursday afternoon, March 13, the Meridian Fire sparked during high winds and high fire danger east of the Colorado Springs Airport. Mandatory evacuation orders were issued soon after, and during their response, deputies with the El Paso County Sheriff's Office spotted a kitty in the path of danger. The cat, named Liza, was scooped up by heroic law enforcement and taken to HSPPR. Once at the shelter, Liza got some much-needed rest, a meal, and plenty of love from the staff while they worked diligently to find her family. However, like many cats, Liza was not particularly fond of her unplanned vacation. 'Liza was not thrilled about this unexpected detour,' HSPPR said in a social media post. 'Our team likes to call cats like her 'spicy'—a little feisty, a little sassy, and very much missing her people. She let us know, in no uncertain terms, that she had places to be!' Thankfully, HSPPR said it didn't take long to find Liza's family–they were located the next day. When Liza's mom arrived, HSPPR said the spicy kitty was transformed before their eyes. 'Gone was the little spitfire we had met just a day before,' HSPPR said. 'As soon as she saw her person, she melted into her arms, purring, snuggling, and reminding all of us just how deep the bond between pets and their families runs. In that instant, there was no fear, no stress—just love.' While Liza's story had a happy ending, HSPPR said it serves as a scary reminder that natural disasters don't just affect humans. Our pets rely on us for safety and security, and when our homes are threatened, so are theirs. 'That's why we're so grateful for our Animal Law Enforcement team and the incredible Community Animal Response Team (CART)—a group of dedicated volunteers trained to assist animals during emergencies,' HSPPR said. 'Their quick actions, alongside first responders, ensure that pets like Liza have a fighting chance at making it home.' If disaster strikes near your home, do you have a plan? For situations just like this, HSPPR has a guide on creating an emergency evacuation kit for your pets, along with tips on preparing before disaster hits. You can find their resources by clicking here. Fortunately, the Meridian Fire did not displace any pets, and HSPPR said it is celebrating Liza's safe return home while praising the brave work of Animal Law Enforcement and shelter staff, for unwavering dedication in a time of intense stress during the fire. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
CBS News
14-03-2025
- CBS News
Suspect arrested in connection with wildfire that burned near Garden of the Gods in Colorado Springs
A suspect has been arrested and accused in connection with a wildfire that ignited near the Garden of the Gods in Colorado Springs. Adam Gilmour, 48, is facing charges of fourth-degree arson in connection to the 20-acre fire. Firefighters said the fire blackened a hillside near the popular tourist attraction located in west Colorado Springs on Thursday. The fire burned close to several homes. Police said the caller who reported the fire to 911 said they saw the person possibly responsible for the fire running away from the scene. Firefighters were able to determine the origin point for the fire and found what appeared to be a makeshift campfire. Gilmour was identified and taken into custody. He was booked into the El Paso County Justice Center on other unrelated felony and misdemeanor warrants along with the arson charge and possession of narcotics charge. The fire didn't force any evacuations, but the burn area came close to the property line of three different homes near an open space area that is part of Colorado Springs city property called Blair Bridge Open Space. It was quickly extinguished. The Meridian Fire broke out near the Colorado Springs Airport on Thursday afternoon, burning more than 2,500 acres. As of Friday, it was 80% contained. All those evacuated during the fire were allowed to return.
Yahoo
14-03-2025
- Climate
- Yahoo
Meridian Fire 80% contained, cause determined accidental
(EL PASO COUNTY, Colo.) — The Ellicott Fire Department gave an update on Friday morning, March 14 about the Meridian Fire, which sparked on Thursday evening, March 13. According to the Ellicott Fire spokesperson, the fire has burned 2,515 acres and destroyed three outbuildings. As of 9 a.m., the fire is 80% contained and all evacuations have been lifted. The spokesperson also said the cause of the fire has been determined to be accidental. PREVIOUS COVERAGE: All evacuations lifted from Meridian Fire Thursday Several areas in Southern Colorado, including El Paso County, remain under a Red Flag Warning on Friday, with high winds expected throughout the day. According to the FOX21 Storm Team, some areas could see gusts up to 50 miles per hour. So far, more than 30 regional and local agencies have assisted in firefighting efforts. Per the Ellicott Fire spokesperson, crews will remain on scene for most of the day to monitor and address any remaining concerns. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
