Lolo fire toll raised to five homes burned
<p>The Lolo Creek Complex of fires sends up a huge smoke plume Tuesday as the fire makes what one fire official called “a rather spectacular run” that forced more evacuations near Lolo.</p>
LOLO — A fifth house has been confirmed destroyed by a wildfire burning west of Missoula that has grown to 8,000 acres after a run late Tuesday afternoon.
Missoula County Sheriff's Capt. Brad Giffin says the Lolo Creek Fire Complex also destroyed an unknown number of outbuildings and vehicles.
One hotshot crew, five hand crews, a helicopter, 10 engines and other heavy equipment are battling the fires.
Officials ordered additional resources and Gov. Steve Bullock declared a state of emergency, which allows the use of National Guard resources ranging from personnel to helicopters.
Department of Natural Resources and Conservation fire spokeswoman Crystal Beckman says a national Type I emergency team was to take over management of the fire on Wednesday morning.