Northeast OKC Wildfire Causes Mandatory Evacuations

Michael Konopasek, News 9

OKLAHOMA CITY – As the flames moved closer to home police went door-to-door telling people to evacuate. Many people did not have a place to go, so they gathered at the closest place they knew.

News 9 talked with people throughout the day who had been evacuated from their homes. They say they don't know what else is next.

Black smoke filled the sky Tuesday over Northeast Oklahoma City, and it continued through the night. The city's fire chief says it's one of the biggest fires he's ever dealt with.

"It's driving me nuts … everything I own is down there," said resident Rebbl Bean . "So, hope for the best."

Doris Evans had a positive outlook on the grim situation.

"We know that God's Will be done," Evans said. "I'm kind of wanting to see [my house], but I know everything is going to be all right whether it's there or not."

Evans and members of her neighborhood at Sooner Roads and Harrison had nowhere to go, so they gathered at Braum's trying to make the best of it.

"I'm just praying and hoping for the best," said concerned resident Dilbert Smith. "I don't know if I'll have a home to go to, or maybe, [I'll] be like the bald eagle looking for a home."

Many people News 9 spoke with say they are not sure where they will sleep Tuesday evening.

The Oklahoma City fire chief says estimates as of Tuesday evening stood at:

* 600 acres burnt

* 10 – 12 structures have been burnt or destroyed

*2 firefighter injuries

The American Red Cross has established a shelter for those who have been evacuated at the Forest Park Community Center.

8/30/2011 Related Story: Large Wildfire Contained In Northeast OKC.