FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

Contact Battalion Chief Tyler Batson, 760-522-0516

On June 4, 2021 at approximately 2:53 p.m., the Escondido Police and Fire Communication Center received reports of a vegetation fire on the right shoulder of southbound I-15 near Valley Parkway and Hale Avenue. The first arriving Engine Captain reported fire was approximately 1/4 acre in size in light flashy grass and debris, between the freeway and a building, moving at a low rate of spread. Additionally, the commercial building at 416 North Hale Avenue (Nemo's Bakery) was potentially threatened, however, evacuations were not necessary.

Firefighters made access to the drainage culvert area from the freeway and through fencing and fully contained the fire at approximately 1/3 acre in about 20 minutes. Crews worked an additional 30 minutes mopping up hot spots. The fire burned dry vegetation and a significant amount of debris from a transient encampment.

In all, three fire engines, one truck company, one Battalion Chief, and a fire investigator responded to the fire. Traffic control and scene safety was swiftly provided by EPD and CHP. There was no obvious damage to nearby structures and there were no injuries. The cause of the fire is currently under investigation.

Safety Message: Utilize the City of Escondido’s “Report It!” Application for smart phones. “Report It!” is a safe and efficient way for citizens to report hazardous brush and debris, graffiti, dangerous potholes, and other community problems. The information assists the City of Escondido in mitigating hazards before an incident occurs. https://www.escondido.org/report-it