Forward progress stopped on Pumpkin Fire northeast of Phoenix

PHOENIX — Forward progress has been stopped on a human-caused fire that was forcing evacuations near Tonto Basin, authorities said Monday.

The Pumpkin Fire grew to 175 acres and was burning near State Route 188, about 90 miles northeast of Phoenix, before progress was stopped just before 5 p.m., according to the Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Management.

Firefighters have secured structures in the vicinity of the fire.

The Gila County Sheriff’s Office was assisting with the evacuations.

An evacuation center was set up at Payson Senior Center at 512 W. Main St. for those affected.

The fire closed SR 188 west of Punkin Center between Slate Creek Trail 265 to Slate Creek Trail 263.

Crews from the Tonto National Forest and local authorities were battling the blaze.

Resources will remain on scene overnight and over the next few days.

No other information was immediately available.

Related

2 contemporary fashion brands to make Arizona debuts at Scottsdale QuarterCien Agaves Tacos & Tequila expands with new East Valley location“Today” show host Savannah Guthrie begs for “someone to come forward” in her mother’s disappearanceGreat Wolf Lodge looks to expand resort with additional towerMaricopa County Library District celebrates opening of new West Valley branchBygone mall favorite Hot Dog on a Stick plans return to Arizona