Fire jumps lines, 8,500 acres burned

DUNKEN, N.M. (KRQE) -  A grass fire, pushed by high winds in Chaves County, has jumped established fire lines and has charred an estimated 8,500 acres.

State fire officials said the blaze was human caused and it started along U.S. Highway 82 near Dunken, N.M.

However, the investigators can't say what exactly caused the blaze.

The Forestry Division's Dan Ware said three homes and a barn could be threatened, but are not in immediate danger.

Around 100 firefighters are on the scene, helped by two heavy air tankers.

The blaze is 60 percent contained.