Wyoming News Briefs

CASPER, Wyo. (AP) — Cooler temperatures and less wind have helped crews battling Wyoming's destructive Casper Mountain Fire. The 24-square-mile blaze has destroyed seven homes on the mountain overlooking Casper and is threatening another 750. About 150 people have been evacuated while hundreds of others are on notice of possible evacuation.

JACKSON, Wyo. (AP) — Fire lines protecting the town of Jackson and the Jackson Hole Valley's main communications towers from a 2,700-acre wildfire are holding up. Officials say the Horsethief Canyon Fire burning south of the resort town didn't make any significant runs yesterday afternoon. About 1,000 residents have been warned to be prepared to leave in case the fire gets too close.

LANDER, Wyo. (AP) — Police are investigating the death of a man found with a gunshot wound to the head in a home in Lander. The death was reported around 3 yesterday morning. Police Chief Jim Carey tells KCWY-TV in Casper that the shooting wasn't a random act. Police aren't commenting on the motive but say only one bullet was fired. The Riverton Ranger reports one person has been taken into custody.

MOOSE, Wyo. (AP) — A group of disabled veterans has successfully climbed to the summit of the 13,770-foot Grand peak in Grand Teton National Park. Yesterday's climb was made to both commemorate the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks and help in their healing process. The climbing party consisted of about a dozen people, including three disabled combat vets.