Multiple Agencies Contains Extensive Grass Fire: In Athens, Alabama, Athens Fire and Rescue (AFR) reports that a significant grass fire has been contained after multiple agencies responded to a fire near Buc-ees in Athens, causing traffic delays on Interstate 65.
Athens Fire Chief James Hand stated that AFR and several other agencies tackled a grass fire that extended between I-65 exit 351 and the Athens Buc-ees on Sunday afternoon. The fire was on the east side of the interstate.
As of 5:07 p.m. Sunday, Hand confirmed that the fire was contained, with crews focusing on controlling a few remaining hot spots. Fortunately, no structures were damaged in the fire.
The cause of the fire is currently unknown.
A City of Athens spokesperson mentioned that all Athens Fire Fighters were mobilized to combat the blaze. The department received assistance from the Priceville Volunteer Fire Department, Decatur Fire and Rescue, and Huntsville Fire and Rescue.
Athens Police Chief Anthony Pressnell reported the closure of one lane of I-65 Northbound between Exits 347 and 353 while fire crews worked to contain the fire. Traffic in that area of I-65 had returned to normal by 6:45 p.m. Sunday, according to Algo Traffic data.
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