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Police Probe Intentional Starts as Brush Fires Burn Palm Bay’s ‘Compound’ for Second Day

Officials have closed the undeveloped tract to protect the public during the investigation.

Overview

  • Fires in The Compound continued into a second day after crews knocked down nine separate burns the night before.
  • Palm Bay police said they believe the fires were set on purpose, and fire officials called the independent starts suspicious.
  • Response teams from Palm Bay Fire Rescue, the Florida Forest Service, and the sheriff’s STAR helicopter used water drops and ground crews to slow the spread.
  • Size and progress reports differed as the scene stayed active, with the Forest Service listing 75 acres at 10% contained and city crews citing roughly 160 acres.
  • No injuries or home damage were reported, and officials closed the area and asked residents to stay out and remain vigilant.