Palm Bay Brush Fire Contained, Remains Active

PALM BAY, Florida -- Palm Bay spokesperson Yvonne Martinez said in an email that a brush fire spanning several blocks in the area of Heil Road NW in Palm Bay, Florida has been contained, but remains active.

The State Fire Marshal reports that a homeowner burning a trash pile in his backyard is the most likely cause of the fire.

Fire crews from Palm Bay, West Melbourne, Brevard County Fire Rescue, Melbourne, and the Florida Division of Forestry continue to battle the blaze where homes and other structures are located in the area which are spread between many vacant lots.  

There has been some structural damage to fencing but no confirmed reports of other damage. Residents in the affected area are being asked to stay inside their homes and avoid emergency vehicles.  Access to the area is being blocked at Minton Road and Hield Road and will remain blocked while the situation is still active.  

No injuries have been reported. 

The National Weather Service in Melbourne reports that dry conditions continue to pose a heightened risk of brush fires today through Tuesday.