Addie McCluskey

Elmore Autauga News

Units from the Millbrook Fire Department were dispatched to a reported camper fire, Jan. 27, 2026, at 12:48 p.m. on 1810 I-65 Service Road.

The first unit arrived on scene within six minutes and found one large camper heavily involved, with approximately three-quarters of the structure on fire. The fire had already spread to a nearby camper.

“Crews acted quickly to stop the forward progress of the fire and prevent further damage to surrounding property,” said Millbrook Fire Marshall Doyle Campbell. “Both camper fires were under control within 11 minutes of arrival. However, despite our best efforts, one individual succumbed to their injuries.”

Keith Wilbanks, a 64-year-old resident of the adjacent camper, was pronounced dead at the scene.

“Our thoughts are with the family and loved ones affected by this tragic loss,” said Campbell. “Any loss of life is devastating, and this incident serves as a sobering reminder of how quickly fires can escalate.”

The cause of the fire in the original camper was determined to be accidental in nature and related to an electric fireplace. Wind conditions were a significant factor in the rapid spread of the fire to the adjacent camper.