Buildings destroyed in Decatur County grass fire

(DECATUR COUNTY, Kan.) — An overheated car is being blamed on sparking a major grass fire in Decatur County. The fire started early Tuesday afternoon six miles west of Oberlin. 

The Operations Manager of High Plains Radio Andrew Stossmeister says the overheated car was sitting on the side of the road when it sparked a fire. The fire moved northeast more than ten miles, taking out several out buildings seven wheat fields.

He says several buildings were evacuated because of the flames, including his radio station.  He says for about an hour they were kept out. Stossmeister says the radio station was lucky, because the flames didn't jump the highway.  But he says the other side of the highway sustained more damage. He says several barns without livestock and garages were also destroyed.

Eight different fire departments, including crews from Nebraska and Colorado are helping fight the fire.  Stossmeister says the fire is about 50% contained. He says when it started, it spread quickly.

Three EMTs were treated for heat exhaustion. No other injuries of people or livestock have been reported. Community members have been dropping off food and water to deliver to the fire fighters.

Scene VideoDecatur Co. Grass Fire.