Investigators said a fast-moving grass fire in southeastern Travis County Thursday was started by someone who ignored the county’s ban on outdoor burning.
A wildfire burned out of control across the street from Patricia Hernandez's home in Creedmoor. Fire investigators say her neighbor is to blame.
"A gentleman who lives close by was burning some trash and it got out of control," Sgt. Art Cardenas said.
It took firefighters from across Central Texas hours to control the fire than charred almost 50 acres of land and everything in its path.
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Creedmoor Wildfire
News 8 Austin's James Keith reports from southeastern Travis County.
 
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Two Blackhawk helicopters were brought in to help STARFlight fight the fire from above. It's a sight neighbors were surprised to see.
"I was thinking the worst because I've been watching the news and everything up north. It's ugly. It's nothing nice. I was scared," neighbor Janie Martinez said.
Officials say people must pay attention to the burn ban.
"Texas Forest Service, they evaluate these conditions, report to Commissioners Court then they put out a decree saying this burn ban is in effect. It's there for a reason so that fires don't get out of control and our citizens are safe," Cardenas said.
In all, about 30 homes were evacuated during the fire. No injuries or major damages have been reported.
The Travis County Sheriff's Office said the man who started the fire was cited for violating the county's burning ban.
