Glencoe wildfire cause unknown, investigators say

A local newspaper reports that the Payne County Sheriff's Department and the State Fire Marshal gathered evidence and interviewed witnesses but were unable to pinpoint the exact cause of the fire.

Investigators say the fire originated near a petroleum pipeline installation where welding, earth-moving equipment and vehicles were present. Authorities say a pipeline welder told a deputy that he was welding but soon found himself surrounded by fire.

Authorities say 53 homes in Payne County were destroyed by the blaze.