Staff Report
The Associated Press
LOVINGTON, N.M. (AP) - Crews say they've stopped the forward spread of a 500-acre grass fire that briefly threatened some homes near Lovington.
New Mexico State Forestry officials say the so-called Branch fire broke out about 6:30 p.m. Friday on private land. The cause of the fire isn't immediately known.
Authorities say some homes were briefly evacuated as a precaution, but no structures have been burned and there are no reported injuries.
People evacuated from the areas of Gum and Colonial Streets have been allowed to return home as structure protection is in place.
Authorities say the fire is four miles west of Lovington. It has burned past the Lea County-Zip Franklin Memorial Airport.
Highway 82 now is re-opened. Crews now are building a fire containment line and patrolling for hot spots.
