RUIDOSO, N.M. — Residents in Ruidoso and parts of surrounding Lincoln County were ordered to evacuate June 17 due to rapidly developing wildfires that had consumed thousands of acres in the area.
Between the South Fork Fire and the Salt Fire, the New Mexico Forestry Department has estimated that about 23,000 acres of land has been burned as of June 19.
Two people were reportedly found dead on June 18 in separate locations.
Patrick Pearson, one of the victims, loved music. In a June 19 interview with KOB 4, his children remembered him for his incredible talent.
“He was one of the best singers in New Mexico,” they said. “Anybody he’s played with, they would tell you the same thing.”
New Mexico State Police said the other victim was found in a vehicle that had been incinerated in the South Fork Fire. Officials said they were unable to immediately identify the person due to their condition being skeletal remains.
Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham declared a state of emergency in Lincoln County and the Mescalero Apache Reservation and deployed additional National Guard to the area in response to the devastating fires. In a press conference on June 19 she said the two fires were some of the worst see in New Mexico history
The magnitude of the fires is beyond local control and requires immediate state intervention to protect public health, safety and welfare. The governor’s emergency declaration unlocks additional funding and resources to manage this crisis. The fires’ cause remains under investigation.
“The horrific South Fork Fire and Salt Fire have ravaged our lands and property, and forced thousands to flee their homes,” Lujan Grisham said. “We are deploying every available resource to control these wildfires, and to provide support to the Village of Ruidoso, the Mescalero Reservation and surrounding areas. I extend my deepest appreciation to the courageous firefighters battling these blazes, as well as everyone who has pitched in to help a community in crisis. I urge everyone to heed official orders at all times to stay safe.”
To keep up to date on this developing situation, visit https://nmfireinfo.com/2024/06/19/south-fork-fire-salt-fire-update-6-19/
