Palm Bay Fire Rescue confirmed a suspicious brush fire that burned 160 acres in the Compound area Tuesday night is fully contained, though investigators are still determining its cause. The fire, which ignited independently in multiple locations, prompted assistance from the Florida Forest Service and the Brevard County Sheriff’s Office STAR helicopter. No homes, property, or injuries were reported, according to officials. Assistant Fire Chief John Ringleb said crews remain on scene for mop-up operations. A second fire broke out Wednesday near Kentucky Drive and J.A. Bombardier Boulevard in the same area, burning about 20 acres. That fire was not threatening homes, though authorities have not yet determined if it is linked to the earlier incident. Both fires are under active investigation. Residents were urged to burn responsibly and report suspicious activity. The Compound area, located southeast of Palm Bay’s downtown, has seen increased fire activity in recent weeks. Fire officials emphasized that no arrests have been made, and the investigation is ongoing. A third fire was reported in the area earlier this month, though it was quickly contained. Authorities are reviewing surveillance footage and interviewing witnesses to determine if any of the blazes were human-caused. The Brevard County Sheriff’s Office said it is working with state agencies to coordinate efforts. Firefighters are also reminding residents to check local burn bans before starting outdoor fires. The latest incident has renewed concerns about wildfire risks in the region during dry conditions. No further details about the suspects or motives were released.
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Suspicious fire in Palm Bay under investigation as second blaze erupts nearby
Authorities are investigating a suspicious brush fire that scorched 160 acres in Palm Bay’s Compound area while a second fire broke out nearby Wednesday.
Source: WFTV