A rapidly spreading brush fire at the new Target shopping center in Southern Pines on Sunday night was brought under control after the quick response of fire crews.
According to radio traffic, juveniles called 911 to report the fire and said they had started it. It was believed to be accidental.
The fire started on a large grassy hill overlooking the construction site. Due to the extremely dry conditions, the fire spread rapidly. The fire was heading toward the wooded area that separates the construction site from the homes on Murray Hill Road.
Fire crews responded and immediately went to work containing the fire. After a short period, the fire was extinguished, and crews worked on the remaining hot spots.
Southern Pines Police and fire marshal are investigating the fire.
~Article and photo by Sandhills Sentinel Publisher B.J. Goodridge.
