Saturday afternoon fire levels multiple structures in Moran

A Saturday afternoon grass fire in Moran quickly escalated, damaging multiple structures and sending several civilians to the hospital for smoke inhalation. The fire, which began around 1:35 p.m., burned well into the evening and was finally extinguished by 10:30 p.m.

According to Moran Fire Chief Tyler George, the blaze started near a property where individuals had been using a cutting torch, which likely sparked the initial flames in nearby dry grass. The fire spread rapidly, consuming a shop building, a trailer home, and several campers before it was brought under control.

Fire departments from Moran, Albany, and across Shackelford County responded, along with the Shackelford County Sheriff’s Office. Electric lines were downed in the area, requiring assistance from AEP, and a gas leak beneath the street had to be safely located and shut off by Atmos crews.

“At least one person was hospitalized for smoke inhalation,” George confirmed. “There was a lot of heavy smoke, but thankfully no major injuries were reported.”

The hospitalized individuals were civilians, and no injuries were reported among firefighters. The exact number of people treated for smoke-related issues was not confirmed.

Cleanup and investigation efforts continued into the night as responders ensured all hazards were addressed and power infrastructure was secured.