News Summary

Raleigh authorities are probing a series of suspected arson-related brush fires along I-540, which disrupted traffic and prompted extensive firefighting efforts. Two fires were reported on October 19, leading to temporary lane closures and no reported injuries. The Wake County Sheriff’s Office is seeking public assistance in the ongoing investigation. Observations from community members have played a crucial role in the rapid response to these incidents, raising concerns about safety along the highway.

Raleigh, North Carolina — Multiple Brush Fires Under Investigation Along I-540

Multiple brush fires reported along I-540 in Raleigh on Sunday, October 19, 2025

Raleigh authorities are investigating several brush fires that occurred along Interstate 540 on Sunday, October 19. The fires, which appear to be intentionally set, are currently under scrutiny by law enforcement, with no injuries reported. The incidents prompted road closures and multiple firefighting responses, raising concerns over potential arson in the area.

Chronology of Fires and Response Efforts

The first fire was reported at approximately 11:40 a.m. along the westbound lanes of I-540 near the Leesville Road exit. Firefighters responded promptly to contain the blaze, and by 12:13 p.m., crews were leaving the scene. Later that afternoon, around 4:15 p.m., a second fire broke out near the Ray Road overpass in the same section of the highway. Fire crews remained at this scene well into the evening, as the fires lasted several hours and disrupted traffic flow between Capital Boulevard and Glenwood Avenue.

Previous fires and ongoing investigation

The fires on Sunday occurred in the same area where several arson-related incidents were reported on Saturday afternoon. Those Saturday fires led to the closure of all lanes of I-540 at Capital Boulevard temporarily, with the highway reopening fully by 5:23 p.m. The circumstances of Sunday’s fires have yet to be determined, and it remains unclear whether they are multiple incidents or an extension of Saturday’s fires.

Community observations and law enforcement response

A Raleigh City Council member witnessed smoke from the highway while on the way to a family event and took immediate action. The council member called 911 after noticing multiple fires in close proximity, prompting an emergency response. The Wake County Sheriff’s Office has urged residents to provide any relevant information that might aid the ongoing investigation.

Firefighting efforts and ongoing scene management

The Raleigh Fire Department assisted in managing both the Sunday fires, with crews working through the duration of the incident. By late morning, the firefighting operation was winding down from the first blaze. However, firefighting crews remained at the scene of the second fire as late as 4:40 p.m. to ensure the fires were fully extinguished and to prevent rekindling or further spread.

Impact on traffic and public safety

During the firefighting efforts, traffic was significantly impacted along I-540, especially near Capital Boulevard. Emergency services prioritized public safety by closing all lanes temporarily during the initial response. The roads were reopened later in the day once the situation was under control.

Investigation and no reported injuries

Authorities continue to investigate the causes of the fires, which are believed to be deliberately set. The sheriff’s office is asking anyone with information related to the fires to contact them at 919-856-6911. At present, no injuries have been reported, and there is no indication of a broader threat to the community.

Background and context

These recent incidents follow a series of fires along I-540 in Raleigh that have raised concerns about arson targeting the highway area. Law enforcement officials are working to determine if these incidents are connected or if they stem from separate motivations. The investigation remains active as authorities seek to identify the individuals responsible.

Summary of key facts

• Multiple brush fires were reported along I-540 in Raleigh on October 19, 2025.
• The first fire was reported at 11:40 a.m. near the Leesville Road exit.
• A second fire occurred at approximately 4:15 p.m. near the Ray Road overpass.
• Fire crews responded promptly and remained on scene through the afternoon.
• All lanes of I-540 at Capital Boulevard were temporarily closed on Saturday but reopened by 5:23 p.m.
• The fires are under investigation for possible arson, with no injuries reported.
• A local resident observed smoke and called 911, aiding law enforcement efforts.
• The Wake County Sheriff’s Office requests general public assistance for the investigation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What incidents occurred along I-540 in Raleigh on Sunday, October 19, 2025?

Multiple brush fires were reported along Interstate 540, with firefighting efforts occurring at two main locations in the morning and afternoon.

When did the first fire happen, and where was it located?

The first fire was reported at approximately 11:40 a.m. along the westbound lanes of I-540 near the Leesville Road exit.

Was there a second fire, and what was its timing?

The second fire was reported around 4:15 p.m. near the Ray Road overpass in the same section of the highway.

Did any traffic disruptions occur?

Yes, traffic was affected, with all lanes of I-540 temporarily closed on Saturday during firefighting operations, and some delays occurred on Sunday.

Have authorities identified the cause of the fires?

The cause remains under investigation, but authorities suspect arson due to the deliberate nature and multiple incidents.

Are there any reported injuries?

No injuries have been reported related to the fires.

How can the community contribute to the investigation?

Law enforcement officials are requesting anyone with information to contact them at 919-856-6911.

Overview

Authorities in Raleigh are actively investigating a series of suspected arson-related brush fires along I-540 that occurred on October 19, 2025. Law enforcement, with assistance from the Raleigh Fire Department, responded to multiple incidents, which temporarily disrupted traffic flow and prompted swift firefighting measures. The investigation is ongoing, and the public is encouraged to share any relevant information with law enforcement agencies to aid in identifying those responsible.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Brush Fires Under Investigation as Arson Along I-540

Additional Resources

• CBS 17
• Wikipedia: Arson
• WRAL
• Google Search: Raleigh brush fire October 2025
• ABC 11
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Fire safety
• Daily Dispatch
• Google News: Wake County brush fires
• News Observer
• Google Scholar: brush fires investigation

Author: STAFF HERE RALEIGH WRITER

RALEIGH STAFF WRITER The RALEIGH STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERERaleigh.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Raleigh, Wake County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the North Carolina State Fair, Raleigh Arts Festival, and the Hopscotch Music Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Raleigh Chamber of Commerce and Visit Raleigh, plus leading businesses in technology and education that power the local economy such as Red Hat and NC State University. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAsheville.com, HERECharlotte.com, HEREGreensboro.com, and HEREOBX.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.