WICKENBURG, AZ — A brush fire in the Wickenburg area, named the "Jones Fire," destroyed multiple homes and forced evacuations.
The fire was first reported on Monday, May 11. On Friday, May 15, the Jones Fire was completely contained at 84 acres.
EVACUATION AREAS & CLOSURES
Officials said Tuesday night that a "SET" evacuation notice was lifted and residents were back under a "READY" status.
South Kerkes Street, including the Arrowhead RV community, was closed because of the fire.
PHOTOS: Residents return to find debris, rubble after Jones Fire destroys homes
Evacuation orders were given on Monday to residents of South Kerkes Street (including Hassayampa Elementary School), South Tegner, and areas on US 93 to Zabel Mine Road, from the railroad tracks west of US 60 to the east of US 60.
On Monday evening, residents on South Tegner Street were allowed to return home.
Jones Fire Update Wickenburg 05/12/26 08:00PM
— Maricopa County Dept of Emergency Mgmt (@MaricopaReady) May 13, 2026
As of 8:00PM the SET notice is lifted and return to READY. S Kerkes St and Arrowhead RV remain closed Fire Info https://t.co/IgePFG03In
The US 60 was closed at milepost 111, officials say. APS also shut off power to some in the area east of US 60.
US 60 was shut down due to the fire, but has since reopened.
EVACUATION CENTER
The American Red Cross has opened an emergency shelter. All residents who are being forced to evacuate can head to the Wickenburg High School gym, located at 1090 South Vulture Mine Road.
Officials say children from Hassayampa Elementary School were transported to Del E. Webb Center for the Performing Arts at Wickenburg High School.
Individuals evacuating should bring essential items for each member of their family, including:
- Prescription and emergency medications
- Foods that meet special dietary requirements
- Extra clothing, pillows, blankets, hygiene supplies, and other comfort items
- Chargers for any electronic devices
- Books, games, and other forms of entertainment
On Tuesday, the Wickenburg Unified School District announced classes would resume on Wednesday, with some students attending classes at a different location.
FIRE DETAILS
On Monday afternoon, the fire was estimated to be about 100 acres in size. That number has since been lowered to 84 acres.
The fire is burning in the river bottom southeast of Wickenburg, according to the Forestry Department.
They add that at least 8-10 RVs have been destroyed in the fire.
The cause of the fire is not yet known, but it is under investigation.
PAST FIRES
The Town of Wickenburg has dealt with brush fires year after year.
In July 2025, a two-vehicle crash ignited the 'Monarch Fire' about five miles southeast of Wickenburg. The fire grew to about 150 acres, but thankfully, it did not cause any injuries or major damage.
The previous year, in June 2024, the 'Rose Fire' sparked from railroad maintenance operations. It grew to about 160 acres and destroyed 15 structures, seven of which were homes.
PICKING UP THE PIECES
ABC15 crews visited a neighborhood that was impacted by the fire on Tuesday morning.
Some residents had returned to find a trail of debris and rubble, while others were surprised to find their homes were still standing.
One man said he was relieved to find his home wasn't destroyed, but he was unable to find his cat. Still, he offered help to his neighbors who lost everything.
"I'll be glad to help as much as I can, in any way I can," he said. "Pick up the pieces and keep on going, that's all you can do."
Another resident was concerned about neighbors who don't have family or another place to go, offering up a couch to those who need a roof over their head.
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