Rucker Fire burns 40 acres in Chiricahua Wilderness | Cochise County

COCHISE COUNTY (KVOA) – Firefighters are battling a 40-acre wildfire burning in a remote canyon northwest of historic Rucker Lake in the Chiricahua Wilderness.

The Rucker Fire was reported at 12:53 p.m. Monday, according to the Douglas Ranger District. The fire is burning in a remote canyon with 0% containment, and the cause remains under investigation.

Firefighters responded immediately with air and ground support. Helicopter rappellers are being brought in to support fire suppression tactics.

Evacuations are in place for dispersed campsites near historic Rucker Lake, Raspberry Ridge Trail #282, Monte Vista Trail #221 and the Raspberry/Rucker Trailhead. Visitors are asked to avoid the area due to additional traffic on Rucker Canyon Road, FSR 74E.

The area is under Temporary Flight Restrictions. Individuals who endanger manned aircraft or people on the ground with drones or interfere with wildfire suppression may face civil penalties, including fines of more than $25,000, and potentially criminal prosecution.