At approximately 1:00 p.m. on April 5, 2026, the Oconto Fire Department was dispatched to a grass fire in the area of Drive 774. Due to the size of the fire, dry conditions, and rapidly spreading flames in rough terrain, additional resources were requested early in the incident.
The Oconto Fire Department requested mutual aid assistance from the Arnold, Broken Bow, Callaway, Cozad, Gothenburg, and Lexington Fire Departments. The Custer County Sheriff’s Office and Custer County Emergency Management also responded and assisted with operations and coordination on scene.
As fire behavior intensified and the head of the fire advanced through difficult terrain, Oconto Fire Department requested aerial firefighting support to help slow forward progress. Arrow Aviation and Buffalo Air each responded with one aircraft, providing aerial suppression efforts. The aerial resources played a critical role in slowing the head of the fire, allowing ground crews the opportunity to establish control lines and bring the fire under control. Landowners assisted with tractors and discs and some fire suppression equipment to help contain the fire.
Fire crews worked throughout the afternoon and evening, and most assisting resources were released at approximately 7:00 p.m. Oconto Fire Department personnel remained on scene overnight to monitor conditions and address remaining hot spots. Crews continued monitoring operations today to ensure the fire remains secure.
The cause of the fire is currently under investigation. No further information is available at this time.
Oconto Fire Department would like to thank all assisting fire departments, agencies, aviation partners for their rapid response, professionalism, and teamwork during this incident.
For additional updates, information will be released as it becomes available.
