Monte Vista community faces aftermath of a fire that destroyed multiple structures
MONTE VISTA, Colo. (KRDO) -- The majority of Monte Vista residents who were forced to evacuate were allowed to return home after a fire ripped through their community. Wednesday
Just after 9 p.m. Wednesday, Monte Vista Police Department said fire officials were comfortable allowing residents to return home.
Still, police say a perimeter around the evacuation zone will remain in place until the Rio Grande County Assessor's Office can survey and assess the damage to the burned structures.
According to police, the initial damage assessment was conducted Thursday. The results of the damage assessment will be released once completed. That report will include the number of structures and vehicles lost.
Investigators are still working to determine the cause of the fire. While it's very early in the investigation, the MVPD says "there is no indication or reason to believe this was intentional."
According to the MVPD, six families were displaced by the fire. The Rio Grande County Department of Social Services and the San Luis Valley Victim Response Unit are offering those families assistance.
As of Thursday, there are no reports of injuries or missing persons.
Additionally, the City of Monte Vista and Rio Grande County are working together to declare the burn zone a disaster area. According to MVPD, this declaration would bring state and federal funding to assist those affected by the fire.
In addition to providing an update Thursday, the police department thanked the surrounding first responders, volunteer fire departments, other agencies, and local businesses who provided aid during the fire.
For those looking to help the Monte Vista community, monetary mail donations can be sent to the Monte Vista Community Fund.
According to the city, people should make checks out to Monte Vista Community Fund. In the memo specify that the money should go towards fire victims.
They can be mailed to PO Box 751 Monte Vista, CO 81144.
Food donations can be made to the Monte Vista Food Bank at 245 Washington, Monte Vista, CO. 81144. Contact Jen Becker at 719-850-2709 for more information.
