Bastrop County Sheriff's Office has released the name of the second victim in the Bastrop county fire. Vickie Keenan, a 58 year old resident of Bastrop, was discovered by officials earlier this week.
The announcement was made at the Bastrop fire press conference Saturday morning. Several other agencies reported on the status of the fire and the progress they have made.
Ronnie McDonald, Bastrop County Judge, announced plans that all Union Chapel residents are able to now return to their houses. He also confirmed again that the fire is still at 40% containment.
Sheriff Terry Pickering of Bastrop has reported that so far, there has been only one official report of looting. He encouraged residents to call 911 if they see looting.
Pickering also gave an update to residents who wish to return to their homes. Prior to Bastrop County authorizing re-entry, residents will need to register and receive credentials that authorize entrance into their residential areas. Areas that are authorized for re-entry will be announced as determined by County Officials based on the safety of the citizens. Registration areas have been established at Home Depot, Lowes, Tractor Supply Company and Smithville Recreation Center and are open today until 6:00pm. They will also be open tomorrow September 11th, from 12:00 noon to 6:00 pm. The re-entry passes will be issued based on photo identification that verifies residency by the property owner or renter. If individuals do not have identification, Bluebonnet Electric will provide staff with utility customer information for verification. The Sheriff assured residents that when they do let residents back in, police will be in place to limit who gets in and prevent looting.
Bluebonnet Electric Company says 3300 homes are currently without power. Bluebonnet plans to re-energizing Tahitian Village by the end of Saturday and has over 120 crews working to restore power. They say that with the exception of Alum Creek, they are 80% through with their assessment of the damaged areas.
Smithville ISD says they will be open at 7:00am Monday morning for classes, however they noted not all bus route will be running. Residents can contact the district for which ones are running. The will have extra counselors on staff to help students.
The next update from Bastrop officials about the fire is expected Sunday morning.
