Fredericksburg, Texas – The Fredericksburg Fire/EMS Department in conjunction with crews from across the region, state and nation are continuing to work the Crabapple Fire.  

As of the last update from the Texas A&M Forest Service, the affected area is estimated at 8,640 acres and 40% contained. The current affected area stretches from Lower Crabapple to Farm-to-Market Road 1631. 

“Crews worked throughout the night battling active fires and flare ups,” Fredericksburg Fire Chief Lynn Bizzell said. “They have held the progress of the fire at FM 1631. This morning, TDEM and Texas A&M Forest Service aircraft are supporting efforts on the ground as we continue to work on containment and protect structures.” 

Texas A&M Forest Service crews have established a containment line from 16 North to FM 1631. The plan for today is to establish a containment line from 16 North to Lower Crabapple Road on the left flank as well as on the south side of the fire.

No injuries have been reported, but reports are numerous structures have been lost and more are still threatened.

According to officials, there are no air quality concerns at this time. Crews are monitoring the weather, because increasing wind speeds become a concern throughout the day.

Officials do not have an estimation on the people evacuated or displaced at this time. The open shelter in Fredericksburg is through the Red Cross at Zion Lutheran Church at 426 W. Main St. They are serving seven people at last check.

Currently, there are two known road closures State Highway 16 North from the Knopp School Road to Eckert Road as well as Eckert Road from Lower Crabapple Road to 16 North. 

As crews continue to work, everyone is asked to avoid the area. People in the area should listen to crews on the ground about evacuations. Anyone who has been evacuated should not return at this time. 

Currently, food, water and other supply donations are not needed. If the public would like to give to the relief effort, please email crabapplefire@fbgtx.org. 

 FIRE INFORMATION
The fire started around 1 p.m. on Saturday, March 15, near 8700 Lower Crabapple Road, which is nearly 11 miles north of downtown Fredericksburg and moved east across Highway 16 North due to high winds and prime conditions for wildfires in the area. 

The Fredericksburg Fire/EMS Facebook page will be updated as information becomes available.

To learn more about the City of Fredericksburg Fire/EMS, go to FBGTX.org or contact City Hall at (830) 997-7521. 

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