On what people thought was another day in Monument, an outrageous fire arose from a barn along Old Denver Highway. It is being called a wild land fire and is affecting the railroad traffic nearby.

Firefighters were on the scene within the first ten minutes of the outbreak and remained there to contain the flames. Due to the high winds, the firefighters worked much harder to keep the flames from spreading to nearby homes. It had already spread into trees and the biggest concern was that it would cross Old Denver Highway affecting schools and the interstate.

According to bystanders the sight is tragic to watch. After the Black Forest fire in June, reports of more land ablaze put people in fear. Initially, from the angle of Lewis-Palmer High School, the staff and students were led to believe it was a house fire.

Erika Nash, guidance counselor, fled from the school with high concerns of her sister’s home in which was close to the fire. As other staff members and students were informed, many people had high concerns.

Senior Elizabeth Schomberg said, “My first instinct was to call somebody, but I knew that Monument’s forces were most likely on the case.”

School administration was already aware of the fire and prepared to keep students calm and informed of the situation.

“I advise students at LP to stay calm and not to worry, and I personally send my prayers to the firefighters and anybody affected,” campus security guard Jan Pieper said.

As of 11:50 the fire was contained and the staff and students of LP thank our forces for keeping our town safe once again.