Lake Fire That Forced 5,000 Evacuations Was Human-Caused

RIVERSIDE, CA — A 105-acre brush fire that erupted Monday in the Santa Ana River bottom between Jurupa Valley and Riverside was human-caused, but it's unclear if it was accidental or arson, Cal Fire/Riverside County Fire Department said Tuesday.

"We are seeking the public's help for any information regarding the Lake Fire investigation," the agency announced. Tips can be reported to the Arson Hotline at 800-633-2836.

Over 200 firefighters from across the region were called to the blaze that forced evacuations of more than 5,000 residents.

The blaze was 85 percent contained Tuesday, but crews were expected to remain on scene for several days to fully douse the fire.

As of 5 p.m. Tuesday, road closures previously in effect for Clay Street, between Van Buren Boulevard and Limonite Avenue, as well as Van Buren between Jurupa Avenue and Limonite, were rescinded.

The non-injury blaze started about 11:10 a.m. Monday in the area of Jurupa Avenue and Van Buren Boulevard, less than a mile north of Riverside Municipal Airport, according to Cal Fire/Riverside County Fire Department.

Firefighters had been making steady progress encircling the fire when a separate brusher sprang up about 3:30 p.m. ahead of the larger one, dangerously near the Western Riverside County Animal Shelter. Officials worked to save all animals.

The fires blended into one under increasing southwesterly winds, shifting directions throughout the day and threatening hundreds of homes in Jurupa Valley and Riverside.

All orders were lifted overnight.

Riverside Municipal Airport and Flabob Airport, three miles to the northeast, were shut down Monday evening, and temporary flight restrictions were imposed, permitting only Cal Fire aircraft to come and go in the airspace.

The river bottom is dotted with homeless encampments, and during dry periods fires from camping and cooking are a regular occurrence.

—City News Service contributed to this report.