Wildfire Near Custer Damages 10 Properties

Authorities say no injuries reported as firefighting efforts continue in South Dakota's Black Hills

Mar. 16, 2026 at 11:10am

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A wildfire that has grown to over 11 square miles near the city of Custer in South Dakota's Black Hills has damaged around 10 properties, ranging from sheds and garages to some homes being lost, according to the Custer County Sheriff's Office. The fire, called the Qury Fire, started on Thursday and authorities say the cause is under investigation. Firefighting efforts have ramped up with around 290 personnel now on site, and temporary flight restrictions are in place as officials warn against unauthorized aircraft over the fire area.

Why it matters

Wildfires in the Black Hills region of South Dakota are a persistent threat, with the area experiencing unusually warm and dry conditions this winter. The Qury Fire highlights the ongoing challenges of managing and containing wildfires in the region, which can threaten homes, infrastructure, and natural resources.

The details

The Qury Fire has grown to over 7,500 acres and authorities say around 10 properties have been damaged, ranging from sheds and garages to some homes being lost. Firefighting efforts have expanded to around 290 personnel, and temporary flight restrictions are in place to prevent unauthorized aircraft from interfering with firefighting operations. Officials are allowing some residents to visit their properties if they pick up a tag, but are warning against illegal ATV and side-by-side use on areas cleared by firefighters.

  • The Qury Fire started on Thursday, March 16, 2026 in a forested, mountainous area about 2 miles southeast of Custer.
  • By Sunday evening, March 19, 2026, the fire's size was estimated at 7,500 acres.

The players

Custer County Sheriff's Office

The local law enforcement agency providing updates and coordination on the Qury Fire response.

U.S. Forest Service

The federal agency managing the firefighting efforts on the Qury Fire, which is burning on public lands in the Black Hills National Forest.

Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)

FEMA has authorized the use of federal funding to help fight the Qury Fire, making 75% of the state's eligible firefighting costs available under a grant.

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What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This wildfire highlights the ongoing threat of wildfires in the Black Hills region, where dry and warm conditions have persisted through the winter. The response efforts demonstrate the coordination between local, state and federal agencies to manage and contain these dangerous blazes, which can threaten homes, infrastructure and natural resources.