Residents of Ruidoso, New Mexico, were granted access to the village on Monday for the first time since two wildfires ravaged the community, causing extensive damage. The search for additional victims is ongoing, with 'eight or less' individuals still unaccounted for as of Tuesday.
Mayor Lynn Crawford reported that search and rescue teams, aided by canines, are meticulously combing through properties in the affected area. The missing persons include both local residents and vacationers who were staying in short-term rentals. While the names and specific details of the missing individuals have not been disclosed, efforts to locate them are a top priority.
Tragically, two individuals have been confirmed dead as a result of the wildfires, with 29 initially reported missing on Monday. A significant portion of the village remains a restricted 'no entry' or 'exclusion' zone where search operations are concentrated.
Despite the devastation caused by the South Fork and Salt Fires, which have collectively consumed over 25,000 acres, Mayor Crawford expressed relief that no additional loss of life has been discovered beyond the two confirmed fatalities. The fires, currently 37% and 7% contained respectively, continue to pose a significant challenge to firefighting efforts.
Over 1,000 firefighting personnel are actively engaged in combating the blazes, with support from FBI special agents working to determine the origins of the fires. The situation is further compounded by the prevailing extreme heat, a global weather phenomenon known to exacerbate wildfire risks and intensify their impact.
One of the confirmed wildfire victims has been identified as Patrick Pearson, 60, who was staying at the Swiss Chalet Inn, a property that was tragically destroyed in the fire. The identity of the second victim remains unconfirmed by state authorities.
Mayor Crawford expressed the emotional toll of the disaster, highlighting the profound impact on the community, particularly on children and individuals struggling to comprehend the extent of the devastation.
