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Temporary road closures in place as firefighters battle Wapato Park brush fires

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Update, 4:34 p.m.: South 56th Street is open again, Shepherd told The News Tribune.

Original story: The Tacoma Fire Department responded to multiple small brush fires in the north end of Wapato Park on Wednesday.

Crews were dispatched at 2:38 p.m. to contain the fire and prevent it from spreading, the department posted on X.

The fire is out now, TFD Spokesperson Chelsea Shepherd told The News Tribune.

Eastbound South 56th Street between South Oakes Street and Tacoma Mall Boulevard will remain closed for half an hour as the response continues.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates.

This story was originally published June 24, 2026 at 4:00 PM.

Bonny Matejowsky
The News Tribune
Bonny Matejowsky is a breaking news and general assignment reporter for The News Tribune. Born and raised in Orlando, she studied journalism at the University of Florida, where she wrote for the independent student paper, The Alligator, and WUFT News. After graduating in May 2025, she discovered her passion for reporting in the Evergreen State as an intern for The Spokesman-Review.
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