Gulf Cove Brush Fire: What We Know So Far

A brush fire in the Gulf Cove area of Charlotte County prompted evacuations and a large aerial and ground response, and officials said no one was injured. This is what we know so far.

Charlotte County Fire and EMS said the fire did not damage any homes, though one shed sustained minor damage, and the blaze was contained and extinguished, according to officials.

The evacuation order affected residents between Jennings Boulevard and Gillot Boulevard near Gisinger Boulevard, with the Charlotte County Sheriff's Office telling people in that area to leave immediately, according to reports and agency statements.

The Florida Forest Service said the fire grew to about 45 to 50 acres as crews battled fast-moving flames with two helicopters and a small plane.

The coverage available at this stage points to a brush fire in the Gulf Cove area, not a confirmed structure fire at the Seminole location listed in the initial dispatch, according to the reports reviewed.

Fire crews and investigators are still working to determine what sparked the fire, and no arrest or suspect information has been reported.

Dispatch records show more than 20,000 similar structure-fire incidents in the past six months, underscoring how often major fire responses can be triggered before the exact type and scope of the incident are confirmed.

Officials have not announced a timetable for a fuller cause report, but the investigation remains active.

Day.News will continue to update this story as officials release more information.

Related: Structure Fire Draws Heavy Response to Seminole Residence