AUSTIN, Texas (AP) _ Fire officials say sparks from electric power lines likely started the blaze that became the most destructive wildfire in Texas history.
The blaze started about 25 miles east of Austin near Bastrop Sept. 4, destroying more than 1,500 homes and killing two people.
The Texas Forest Service wouldn’t elaborate on the cause Tuesday to The Associated Press. However, a copy of the report obtained by the Austin American-Statesman states the massive blaze started as two fires ignited about five miles apart around the same time.
One fire began when winds toppled a dead pine tree onto power lines, showering the dry vegetation below with sparks. The other fire ignited when fallen tree branches became tangled with power lines, showering dry grass and branches with sparks.
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