Homeless Encampment Building Catches Fire In Banning

BANNING, CA -- A building caught on fire late Saturday morning in a homeless encampment in Banning. The fire, which happened at the encampment informally known as The Compound, was reported on West Lincoln Street around 10:51 a.m.

More than 25 firefighters and seven engines were called to the structure fire on the 600 block of West Lincoln Road. The building was vacant when crews arrived on the scene, according to the Riverside County Fire Department.

Fire officials said the commercial building that caught fire is about 20,000 square feet.

The fire prompted one lane closure on eastbound Interstate 10 between 8th and Hargrave streets.

A large smoke plume was visible as far away as Moreno Valley and Riverside, less than 20 minutes after the fire broke out.

The area is known for its abandoned commercial buildings that house homeless people.

This is a developing story. Check back with Patch for more information.

--Photo 1 by Alan Fugitt; Photos 2 and 3 by Carly Bustos