Crews Battle Fire Near Beaumont That Authorities Believe Was Human-Caused
CHERRY VALLEY (CBSLA.com) — A fast-moving brush fire quickly scorched 1,000 acres Tuesday in Riverside County, prompting hundreds of homes to be evacuated.
The fire likely was human-caused, authorities said Tuesday evening. Anyone with information witnessing or have knowledge of juvenile activity near the north end of Winesap Avenue near the entrance gate to Bogart Park in Beaumont around 12:30 p.m. Tuesday is urged to call (800) 633-2836. All calls are anonymous, the Riverside County Fire Department said.
The fire was reported at 12:25 p.m. near the area of Winesap Avenue and International Park Road and spread to 100 acres in just over an hour, according to Fire Department spokeswoman April Newman.
Initially, the fire didn't pose a threat to nearby structures, but about 1:45 p.m., fire officials said the Highland Springs Mobile Home Park at 10350 Overland Trail was being evacuated by the Riverside County Sheriff's Department. Evacuation orders were later expanded to include all residents on the Banning Bench.
All evacuation orders were lifted by 10 p.m.
About 300 firefighters were deployed to battle the blaze about 3 p.m. Additional ground and air resources were requested, Newman said.
The fire had charred about 1,000 acres by 10:25 p.m. and was 10 percent contained.
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