SANTAQUIN — A new wildfire ignited Sunday in Utah County and grew to an estimated 400 acres by the evening, officials said.
The William Fire was reported about 2 p.m. in Pole Canyon east and south of the city of Santaquin. Thirteen fire engines, three helicopters and six air tankers were fighting the blaze into the evening with no reported containment.
Officials believe the fire was caused by target shooters, Utah County Sheriff’s Sgt. Spencer Cannon said.
He said there are a few cabins in the area, but no formal evacuations were needed. Officials went to notify cabin owners, but they were empty, Cannon said.
“If you look toward the south end of Santaquin you’ll notice smoke in the air. This is from an active brush fire up Pole Canyon in the Meadows area. Santaquin crews are working with other local, state, and federal agencies to control the blaze,” Santaquin Fire Department said in a statement.
“We appreciate the efforts of Rocky Ridge Fire Department, Juab County fire crews, Payson Fire, Utah County Fire, Genola Fire, and all other incoming crews for their assistance,” the fire department said.
Officials asked people to stay away from Pole Canyon for the safety of fire crews.