New Mexico Wildfires Claim 2 Lives, 500 Homes Destroyed

At least two people have died in connection with the New Mexico wildfires, state police have confirmed. Two others have received medical treatment for injuries. New Mexico is currently battling two large wildfires that started on June 17: the South Fork Fire and the Salt Fire. These fires have since flanked the entire town of Ruidoso, forcing an evacuation of more than 7,700 residents. The nearby community of Ruidoso Downs, home to approximately 2,400 people, has also been evacuated. The South Fork Fire has burned across nearly 15,300 acres, and the Salt Fire has consumed over 5,550 acres. More than 5,000 structures, including homes and businesses, have been affected....