JERUSALEM (VINnews) — The community of Havat Gilad in Samaria was evacuated on Saturday after a wildfire spread from the direction of Kedumim and reached the homes in the community.

A total of 45 firefighting and rescue crews, assisted by a reconnaissance helicopter and eight firefighting aircraft, battled the blaze. Two firefighters were injured—one moderately and one lightly—during the operation and were evacuated for medical treatment.

The fire penetrated the residential area, destroying approximately 13 homes, a garage, and a wood storage facility. Several vehicles were also damaged, including an armored fire engine that sustained damage from the intense heat after the rapidly advancing flames, driven by strong winds, crossed the first row of homes.

After more than five hours, firefighters succeeded in bringing the blaze under control. According to the preliminary findings of the investigative team, the fire was most likely caused by a discarded cigarette butt.

The IDF is in possession of surveillance footage captured by a military lookout soldier showing a Palestinian driver passing along the road and allegedly throwing the cigarette that is believed to have started the fire. The military is now working to locate the driver. According to the IDF, it has identified the vehicle, including its license plate number.

During the firefighting efforts, the Judea and Samaria Division deployed substantial forces to assist emergency responders. Among other measures, the IDF provided water tankers and, in recent hours, has been assisting approximately 100 families who were evacuated from their homes.

Police officers from the Shomron District assisted in evacuating residents and directing traffic on nearby roads. Highway 55, from the Jit Junction westward, was closed to facilitate the evacuation. Police said a special investigative team is examining the circumstances surrounding the outbreak of the fire.

One of the victims who lost her home is Yael Shevach, the wife of Raziel Shevach HYD who was murdered near his home in 2018.

“A good week to those who can afford one,” Shevach wrote on her official account. “There was a fire. A fire. Our home is gone. We’re okay—thank you to everyone for your concern. I have nothing to say—and I have no home.”