According to a report from NBC5, a private citizen who was volunteering his help in fighting the Chalk Mountain Fire in Somervell County, Texas, with his “military-style fire truck” escaped serious injury after being overtaken by flames on Monday. The vehicle, however, was a total loss after the sustained fire damage.
The Somervell County Sheriff’s Office said Deputy Greg Sharp was going door-to-door to give evacuation notices, when he came across the man as he was fighting the flames with his own
Eventually, man was forced to abandon the vehicle as it was overcome by fire. He joined Sharp in his vehicle as they narrowly escaped the oncoming flames. Both escaped with just minor injuries. Sharp’s department vehicle was also damaged.
The Somervell County Sheriff’s Office said the two vehicles were the only ones to be known to have been damaged by the Chalk Mountain Fire.
As of Thursday, the Texas A&M Forest Service said the Chalk Mountain Fire has scorched 6,339 acres and is just 10% contained.