A fire that erupted Friday afternoon at a residence on East Funk Road north of Artesia rendered a local family’s home a total loss.
The Regional Emergency Dispatch Authority (REDA) received multiple 911 calls beginning at 12:32 p.m. Friday regarding the structure fire at 26 E. Funk Road. At 12:33 p.m., the Cottonwood Volunteer Fire Department and Artesia Fire Department were dispatched.
Initial reports indicated it was unknown whether the residents were aware of the fire, and thus also unknown whether anyone was inside the home. However, upon arrival of the CVFD and AFD, it was quickly confirmed all residents had evacuated, and extinguishment efforts began.
According to Eddy County Fire Service Director/Fire Marshal Joshua Mack, it took units approximately three hours to fully extinguish the blaze due to the fire being in hard-to-access areas of the home. No injuries to either civilians or firefighters were reported.
Responding departments included the CVFD and AFD, Atoka, Sun Country and Riverside Volunteer Fire Departments, and Eddy County Fire Service.
Mack says the fire is currently under investigation by ECFS.
“This fire was also a reminder that more volunteers are needed in Eddy County to assist in response throughout the county,” Mack said. “If you are interested, please contact your local volunteer fire department or call Eddy County Fire Service at 575-628-5450 for more information.”
Artesia residents are currently collecting donations of clothing in men’s and women’s size large, and boys’ sizes 3-6 months, 7-8 years, and 11. Monetary donations and donations of household items are also being accepted. Donations may be dropped off at 908 Sears Ave.
