Multiple firefighters with the Willowfork Fire Department, which serves the Katy and Cinco Ranch area, were injured Thursday morning, August 27, 2026, when their fire engine was struck head-on by a runaway trailer in Palo Pinto County. The crew was traveling to another section of the massive Ross Fire, one of the largest wildfires in North Texas history, when a truck pulling a large trailer allegedly lost control and crossed into the engine’s path. The impact tore the front wheel assembly off the apparatus and left the fire truck with heavy damage. The department has not released the number of firefighters hurt or the severity of their injuries.
According to FOX4 News, Willowfork Fire Chief Billy Wilson said the department is “extremely grateful for the support” the injured firefighters have received since the crash and thanked the crews who responded to help. Covering Katy reported that the Ross Fire had already burned more than 85,000 acres across Palo Pinto and Jack counties and remained active when the collision happened. Neither outlet has confirmed whether the driver of the truck and trailer was cited or whether Texas authorities are still investigating the crash. Firefighters and other emergency responders hurt by a negligent driver while on duty may have legal options, and Beverly Law reviews these cases at no cost — no fee unless we win.
