Multi-Agency Crews Contain Fast Moving Brush Fire

HIGH SPRINGS – Fire crews from across western Alachua County rushed to a fast-moving brush fire Sunday afternoon after reports that flames were threatening homes, vehicles and other property near Northwest 94^th Avenue.

Firefighters from High Springs, Newberry, Alachua County Fire Rescue and the Florida Forest Service responded at 2:09 p.m. on Nov. 16, 2025, along with deputies from the Alachua County Sheriff’s Office. The fire was reported at 24715 N.W. 94^th Avenue in unincorporated Alachua County.

High Springs firefighters arrived at 2:18 p.m. to find an active grass fire with multiple structures at risk. Brush trucks immediately began knocking down the fast-moving flames while engine crews focused on protecting nearby homes.

“Fast, inter-departmental communication and coordination saved this fire from spreading to nearby structures and vehicles,” said Alachua County Fire Rescue Battalion Chief Drew Dabney.

With a large number of response units committed to the scene, additional steps were taken to ensure emergency coverage throughout the region. Off-duty High Springs firefighters and units from LaCrosse were moved to cover the High Springs area, while Archer firefighters relocated to Newberry. Alachua County Fire Rescue also reassigned crews from its Fort Clarke Boulevard station to the Jonesville area to maintain adequate protection for residents across western Alachua County.

By 2:39 p.m., firefighters had contained the blaze to 3.7 acres, according to the Florida Forest Service. Responding crews saved 14 exposures, including five boats, five structures and four vehicles.

No injuries were reported. Fire officials believe the fire was sparked by an escaped pile burn from the previous night.

The High Springs Fire Department is reminding residents to use caution when burning outdoors. The department advises property owners to avoid burning on windy days and to ensure a fire is fully extinguished before walking away, noting: “If it’s too hot to touch, it’s too hot to leave.”

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