Multiple brush fires reported in Charlotte County; one person in custody

CHARLOTTE COUNTY, Fla. —

One person was taken into custody Tuesday after firefighters responded to multiple brush fires in Charlotte County, where officials say dry conditions and strong winds have made outdoor burning especially dangerous.

Charlotte County Fire & EMS said the fires were reported along Toledo Blade Boulevard and Richland Drive in Port Charlotte. Fire crews extinguished several small fires before returning to assist with a quarter-acre brush fire nearby in the afternoon.

Charlotte County remains under a burn ban, and firefighters warned that even small fires can quickly spread under current conditions. Chief Matthew McElroy of Charlotte County Fire & EMS said gusty winds increase the risk of fires growing out of control.

“A small fire does turn into larger fires with the higher winds that we’re having today,” McElroy said. “Over the next couple of days, it could potentially grow into a large fire.”

Residents expressed concern and frustration after seeing fires burn during windy conditions.

“We saw people burning the other day, and it was like 25-mile-an-hour winds,” said Abby Bruns, a Port Charlotte resident. “I don’t understand why someone would do it, and it was scary.”

Bruns noted that limited rainfall has worsened conditions.

“The rain has been minimal, so it’s not a good time — definitely not a good time — to burn,” she said.

Officials said the fires can pose a threat to homes, residents and first responders.

Gulf Coast News is working with the sheriff's office to identify the person detained and determine whether charges will be filed.

DOWNLOAD the free Gulf Coast News app for your latest news and alerts on breaking news, weather, sports, entertainment, and more on your phone or tablet. And check out the Very Local Gulf Coast app to stream news, entertainment and original programming on your TV.