16 Homes Destroyed by Western Montana Wildfire

HAMILTON, Mont. (AP) — Authorities have found two more homes that were destroyed by a wildfire in western Montana, bringing the total to 16.

Ravalli County Undersheriff Steve Holton said Friday the homes were confirmed destroyed after crews were able to clear access to them. An additional 49 outbuildings and non-residential structures were damaged by the Roaring Lion Fire, which started southwest of Hamilton on Sunday.

The fire, which has burned more than 12 square miles, is 15 percent contained.

More than 600 homes had been evacuated, but residents of 400 homes were told Thursday they could return.

Fire crews are mopping up fire line and conducting some burnouts to secure barriers to the fire's expansion. Crews are also working around homes to cool down any hot spots that could re-ignite.