Fire Crews Rescue Teens, Contain Brush Fire Near Waldo

WALDO ‒ Fire crews and state forestry officials worked together Saturday evening to contain a fast-moving brush fire near the Louise Hunt Club north of Waldo, while also rescuing a pair of teenagers whose vehicle became disabled in the area of the blaze.

According to Alachua County Fire Rescue, units were dispatched around 6:30 p.m. on Sept. 6 to County Road 1475 after reports of smoke. Responders arrived to find a light haze, and further investigation revealed a brush fire estimated at 1 to 2 acres that was spreading rapidly.

The Florida Forest Service responded to the scene with two bulldozers to help access the fire. As crews attempted to reach the flames, the Combined Communications Center received a 9-1-1 call reporting that teenagers were stranded in a vehicle inside the fire zone.

The teens’ parents soon arrived at the command post and provided GPS coordinates. A search and rescue operation was launched using a brush truck equipped with a search and rescue technician. Crews successfully located the teenagers and escorted them away from danger.

Meanwhile, forestry bulldozers and fire units continued working to suppress the blaze. The fire was eventually brought under control and measured about 5.5 acres, authorities said.

The Louise Hunting Club, founded in 1972, is a dog running hunting club located in the area where the fire broke out.

The incident underscores the risks faced during wildfire season in North Central Florida, where dry brush and windy conditions can quickly escalate small fires into larger hazards. Officials said the coordinated response between county fire rescue and state forestry crews was instrumental in both extinguishing the blaze and ensuring the safety of those trapped nearby.

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