Wildfire near Payson contained

PAYSON, Ariz. -- A wildfire northeast of Payson, which forced evacuations earlier this week, was 90 percent contained Thursday.

A fire line had been completed around the perimeter of the 770-acre fire, and firefighters were conducting mop-up operations.

The fire area in the Tonto National Forest remained closed to the public because of debris and damage to roads.

The "Water Wheel Fire" began Sunday and burned through tinder-dry ponderosa pine, manzanita and oak brush.

The communities of Beaver Valley and Whispering Pines were evacuated Sunday night when the fire threatened them. Residents were allowed to return to their homes Monday night and Tuesday.

The fire burned within one-quarter mile of the homes, but none was lost.

Firefighters said they did not know what started the fire, but they do not believe it was caused by lightning.