Florida Division of Forestry: Oak Ridge Road brush fire started by neighbor burning trash

A wildfire in St. Johns County likely started from someone burning debris.

Right now, the fire is about 95% contained and about 15 acres.

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That’s according to the Florida Forest Service.

Action News Jax first first reported on the fire as breaking news Sunday night— as people saw the flames and smoke throughout the area.

The state’s investigation said smoke filled the sky after a brush fire started in the Oak Ridge Road area yesterday afternoon.

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“Some lady was burning trash, right at the woods line and it just got out of control,” said Jessie Ash, who said he was home when the fire started.

"I've lived out here too long to be afraid of any of it,” Ash told Action News Jax reporter Courtney Cole.

Ash said he heard one fire engine after another drive down the normally quiet, peaceful roads.

“You could smell, basically, a woods fire -- and you smell the smoke,” Ash said, "and see the flames."

Ash told Cole he was grateful for all the hard work of the St. Johns County Fire Department — and how quickly they were able to help the Florida Division of Forestry contain the fire.

Ash found a way to help, too.

“After I seen (sic) how many was there — I got a cooler and put it on the front of my four wheeler and filled it up with water and ice and went down there and started giving water to whoever wanted it,” Ash said.

Action News Jax First Alert Chief Meteorologist Mike Buresh says April and May are typically the driest months in our area.

That's why now through much of May is typically the peak of wildfire season.

St. Johns County Fire Rescue says they're keeping an eye on brush conditions, but there is no need for extra concern at this time.

The Florida Division of Forestry says there will be extensive investigation.

But  for right now, the homeowner who was burning the trash has received a notice.

Cox Media Group