RV Fire Results in Total Loss at Wildlife West Nature Park

Wild West Frontier Festival Still On!

EDGEWOOD — On Saturday, May 30, at approximately 4:45 PM, Wildlife West Nature Park owners and festival producers Eric and Paula Vigil received a devastating phone call informing them that smoke was coming from their RV located on the property.

After having already departed Edgewood, Eric and Paula immediately turned around and headed back to the park. Due to heavy traffic on Interstate 40 and Historic Route 66, the return trip took an additional 45 minutes.

The Santa Fe County Fire Department responded quickly to the scene and was able to extinguish the fire before it spread to surrounding areas. Unfortunately, despite their rapid response, the RV was declared a total loss.

“We are heartbroken by the loss,” Eric said “The RV served as our home during our festivals and special events. While this is certainly a setback, we are thankful for the fast response of the firefighters and grateful that no one was injured.”

The couple expressed relief that the fire did not spread to the surrounding property or threaten any of the animals that call Wildlife West Nature Park home.

“We are incredibly thankful that the fire was contained quickly, the property was protected, and all of the animals are safe and secure,” Paula said.

Despite the loss, Eric and Paula confirmed that the upcoming Wild West Frontier Festival, scheduled for June 6-7, will proceed as planned.

“This is just another speed bump in life,” Eric said. “The festival will go on, and we look forward to welcoming everyone to Jamestown next weekend for a wonderful celebration of the Old West.”

The Wild West Frontier Festival will feature live entertainment, historical demonstrations, gunfighter shows, cowboy performers, horse rides, axe throwing, gold panning, craft vendors, food vendors, and the popular Chili Cook-Off on Sunday.

The Vigils would like to thank the Santa Fe County Fire Department, Wildlife West staff, volunteers, and the many friends who have already reached out with support and encouragement during this difficult time.

For additional information about the Wild West Frontier Festival, visit: www.wildwestfrontierfest.com