Oklahoma wildfires destroy homes and force evacuations

Authorities took one man into custody on suspicion of arson and were searching for another after a wildfire in south-western Oklahoma destroyed at least 30 homes and forced the evacuation of two schools, a nursing home and businesses.

The fire was one of several fuelled by gusty winds and high temperatures.

Seven firefighters were injured while fighting the blazes.

“They believe this fire was purposely set,” said Sam Darst, public information officer for the city of Duncan, Oklahoma, the county seat.

Two firefighters suffered severe burns. One was in critical condition, and another was in satisfactory condition, Darst said.

Other fires burned in the Oklahoma City metropolitan area and blazes were reported near Wagoner and Sallisaw in eastern Oklahoma, said Anna Payne, a state fire information officer.