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New details have emerged regarding the large brush fire that erupted near the Syracuse Zoo on March 19. The fire, which started in an open field near a drainage basin off Grand Avenue, was determined to be human-caused, though the exact circumstances remain unclear. Syracuse Fire Department spokesperson Capt. Phillip Vogt confirmed that the fire was not due to natural causes such as lightning or electrical sparks. The investigation has now been closed unless further information arises.
The blaze, which sent flames up to 30 feet high, threatened nearby homes and the Rosamond Gifford Zoo but caused no property damage or injuries. Firefighters responded promptly around 6:57 p.m., battling the fire for over two hours before it was fully extinguished. The fire burned approximately four to five acres, fueled by dry conditions and gusty winds.
Syracuse.com reported that the fire's origin remains a mystery, with no specific evidence pointing to whether it was intentional or accidental. Despite the uncertainty, the swift response from multiple agencies, including the Syracuse Fire Department, Onondaga County Sheriff's Office, and Syracuse Police Department, helped prevent a potentially catastrophic event.
Spectrum Local News highlighted the cooperation between emergency services, which included cutting padlocks on gated service roads to access the blaze and deploying drones to monitor its progression. This coordinated effort ensured the fire did not spread to residential areas.
Urban CNY noted that wildfires of this magnitude are rare in Syracuse, making the event significant for the community. The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of fire safety and preparedness, even in urban settings.