Possible Arson Fires Threaten Homes in Cherry Valley
Possible Arson Fires Threaten Homes in Cherry Valley
by Contributing Editor
Three possible arson fires that erupted Friday in Cherry Valley blackened more than 60 acres and threatened homes, prompting evacuations on several residential streets.
The fires were reported at 5 p.m. in the area of Apple Tree Lane and Oak Glen Road, on the north end of the unincorporated community, which borders Beaumont, according to the Riverside County Fire Department.
Twenty engine crews and 10 hand crews, numbering well over 200 personnel, were sent to the location and encountered the three blazes coalescing in a drainage with heavy vegetation.
Two of the fires formed into one by 5:45 p.m., and that fire was about 60 acres, while the other was roughly 10 acres as of 6 p.m., according to reports from the scene.
Four Cal Fire air tankers and two water-dropping helicopters were immediately summoned to make runs on the wildfires.
Sheriff’s deputies shut down Oak Glen Road between Cherry Valley Boulevard and Wildwood Canyon Road, and shortly before 6 p.m., several streets came under mandatory evacuation, officials said. The exact streets were not immediately disclosed.
A resident at 8189 Avenida Miravilla reported flames approaching her doorstep, and crews were sent to establish structure protection.
Witnesses called 911 as the fires started, stating a man was seen walking along Apple Tree, igniting each blaze. Arson investigators were dispatched to the area.
Along with county fire crews, personnel from the Calimesa, Morongo and Palm Springs fire departments were sent to assist under a mutual aid request.
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All credit goes to Contributing Editor
Originally published on https://mynewsla.com
