East End VFD Responds to Early-Morning Tree Fire on Power Line Along Hwy 63 East

Photo Courtesy of East End VFD

JASPER COUNTY, Texas — Firefighters with East End Volunteer Fire Department responded early Monday morning to a reported tree fire involving a power line along Highway 63 East near County Road 277.

According to East End VFD, the call came in at 3:24 a.m. reporting sparks and a small fire caused by a tree that had fallen onto a power line. Upon arrival, crews found a small tree draped over the energized line and evidence of a nearby grass fire.

Firefighters determined the grass fire had already burned itself out before their arrival; however, active flames were still burning at the top of the tree, creating an ongoing hazard due to its contact with the power line.

East End VFD secured the scene and coordinated with Jasper-Newton Electric Cooperative (JNEC), which arrived to safely remove the tree from the power line. Once the line was cleared, firefighters applied water to fully extinguish the remaining flames and eliminate any risk of rekindling.

The response included two brush trucks, one engine, and seven personnel. No injuries were reported, and no additional property damage was noted.

Officials remind residents to report downed power lines immediately and to never approach them, as they may remain energized even if no fire is visible.