Escape from killer New Mexico wildfire was 'absolute sheer terror,’ says woman who fled the flames

This undated image provided by Hilary Mallak shows her father, Patrick Pearson, holding his granddaughter Harlynn Mallak. Pearson was found dead outside of the Swiss Chalet Inn in Ruidoso, New Mexico, where he lived after smoke and flames from a pair of fast-moving wildfires moved into the community. Thousands of residents were forced to evacuate and authorities have estimated 1,400 structures have been damaged or destroyed.

Officials were still taking stock on Friday as firefighters took advantage of rain and cool temperatures to keep the blazes from growing, but large swaths of some neighborhoods were lost. At least two people died. Within a few short hours, the majestic views of Sierra Blanca Peak were blotted out as huge plumes of smoke rose from the forested hills. The sun disappeared, the sky turned orange and flames became visible from vantage points around Ruidoso.

“This was unlike anything. The sky was black and orange, and the clouds were like mushroom clouds,” she said. “It was just like a horror movie. It really was.” A talented musician and good cook, the 60-year-old Pearson loved Ruidoso and loved making people happy, Mallak said.

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