Firefighters gain control of brush fire at bottom of the Salt River

LAVEEN, AZ (AZFamily) — Firefighters have gained control of a brush fire near the Salt River that sent a pillar of smoke over part of Phoenix.

Around 6:30 a.m., crews responded to reports of a brush fire in the area of 51st Avenue and Broadway Road in Laveen.

Arizona’s Family crews on the scene saw firefighters battling large flames, which have since died down to smoldering hotspots.

According to the Phoenix Fire Department, crews were able to control the fire after it burned an estimated two acres of brush. Firefighters will remain at the scene while they extinguish remaining hotspots.

Authorities closed southbound 51st Avenue between Broadway Road and Southern Avenue. Drivers are asked to avoid the area and use alternate routes.

“We’re probably going to be here for a couple more hours,” Moreland said.

State fire resources are expected to take over control of the scene later in the day.

Authorities said they do not believe the fire poses any air quality concerns for nearby residents.

It is unclear what caused the fire.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates.

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