Wind spreads fire to multiple Mesa homes [Video]

MESA, AZ (AZFamily) — Dozens of firefighters are on scene in a Mesa neighborhood where gusty winds helped spread a fast-moving fire that destroyed two homes.

The initial fire broke out shortly after 2 p.m. on Halifax Street, just northwest of Gilbert and Brown roads. Mesa Fire Captain Chris Tiller says the initial fire is believed to have started in an RV or backyard shed before it spread to a house. The wind-driven fire quickly engulfed the residence before spreading to a second home.

The incident was quickly upgraded to a first-alarm response, then a second-alarm requesting even more manpower and equipment. Crews took a defensive stance, as conditions were too dangerous for firefighters to enter the homes.

Both homes are a complete loss, but firefighters successfully prevented the fire from spreading to a third house.

Capt. Chris Tiller said four people safely escaped one house while two others safely got out of the second home. …