04/23/2026
Yesterday afternoon, April 22, 2026, we responded to a rapidly evolving brush fire that threatened several residential structures in the vicinity of Arlie Davis Drive and NC HWY 172.
The incident began at approximately 1:20 PM as a smoke investigation. Upon arrival, firefighters reported heavy smoke conditions, and command was quickly established. Due to shifting winds and the aggressive nature of the fire, the incident was upgraded to a structure fire response to prioritize the protection of nearby homes.
In a coordinated effort, firefighters deployed a quarter mile of hose line and strategically positioned themselves and apparatus between the advancing flames and local residences. These "structure protection" teams remained on the front lines to ensure that, despite the wind-driven shifts in the fire’s path, no lives or homes were lost.
During the height of the operation, NC HWY 172 was closed between Sneads Ferry Rd and NC HWY 210. This decision was made out of an abundance of caution for both public and responder safety.
The closure of HWY 172 was vital to the success of this operation as it allowed our tankers to move freely to resupply water, provided a dedicated area for personnel rehabilitation on the front lines, and ensured a safe means of egress for our crews should the situation have dictated an emergency evacuation.
In large-scale incidents, particularly fast-moving brush fires that threaten structures, no single department has the organic resources to manage the scene, provide water shuttles, protect exposures, and ensure member safety simultaneously. The containment of this fire was a massive team effort, over 80 personnel in total. Turkey Creek Fire Rescue would like to extend a sincere thank you to the following agencies for their tireless support:
Assistance provided by:
-Holly Ridge, North Topsail Beach, Camp Lejeune, Verona, Rhodestown, Pumpkin Center (on scene)
Strategic placement of other departments from both Onslow and Pender Counties, ensured that all on scene departments and the residents of those areas were covered in the event of any other emergencies
-Onslow County Sheriffs, North Topsail Beach Police Department and the North Carolina Highway Patrol: For managing traffic and ensuring the safety of the fire lines.
-Onslow County Emergency Services (OCES & OCEMS): For providing on-scene incident oversight and medical rehab.
-NC Forestry Service: For providing a scout plane and plow units establishing containment lines.
Ultimately, teamwork breaks down our jurisdictional silos. To the citizen whose home is in the path of a fire, the color of the truck matters less than the speed of the water. When Onslow County, Camp Lejeune, Pender County, and State resources work as one, both fire and law enforcement, it creates a seamless shield of protection and safety for the entire community.
During the operations, one firefighter sustained a non-life-threatening ankle injury. The individual was treated on-scene by OCEMS and transported for further evaluation. We wish our brother a speedy recovery.
The department would like to thank the citizens of the Turkey Creek Fire District and the surrounding community for their patience and understanding during this incident. Your cooperation allowed our teams to focus entirely on the mission at hand: protecting our neighbors and their property.
