Crabapple Fire Impact Homes Lost, Thousands of Acres Scorched Near Fredericksburg

The Crabapple Fire has wreaked havoc near Fredericksburg, Texas, burning 9,858 acres and destroying nine homes by March 19, 2025. Firefighters have achieved a 90% containment rate, but they continue to face challenging conditions, including strong winds and dry weather that threaten to worsen. The fire began on March 15 as a grass fire near the 8700 block of Lower Crabapple Road, quickly spreading eastward across Highway 16 North. Local investigators from the Gillespie County Sheriff's Office and Texas A&M Forest Service are still working to determine the fire's cause. While no fatalities have been reported, one firefighter sustained minor injuries and was treated and released from the hospital.

The Texas Division of Emergency Management has provided updates on damage, including the destruction of nine homes, seven of which were occupied. In response to the disaster, the One Star Foundation has set up an emergency relief fund for those affected. Community members are urged to remain cautious as windy conditions persist, potentially exacerbating the situation.