Crime & Safety
Homeless Encampment Blaze Ignites In Santa Ana River Bottom
The Thursday blaze scorched motor homes, cars and more in the large transient camp, firefighters say.
JURUPA VALLEY, CA — A fire that broke out Thursday in a homeless encampment along the Santa Ana River bottom in Jurupa Valley scorched nearly an acre and damaged motor homes and other vehicles.
The blaze was reported shortly before 9 a.m. in the area of Market Street and Via Cerro, according to the Riverside County Fire Department.
The agency said that multiple engine crews were sent to the location and encountered a "large encampment well involved."
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At least two motor homes and two cars were in flames, officials said.
Firefighters encircled the blaze, preventing it from extending well into surrounding brush and expanding. The fire was contained within an hour.
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No injuries were reported.
The river bottom is dotted with transient camps, despite efforts by the county Flood Control & Water Conservation District and the city of Riverside to remove and deter settlements.
Warming, debris and cooking fires are commonplace year-round
Vegetation Fire - 8:47 am Market Street X Via Cerro in Jurupa Valley. Firefighters responded to multiple reports of smoke from the river bottom. First on scene company officer advised a large encampment well involved. Approx. 1/2 acre of heavy vegetation, 2-3 motor homes and… pic.twitter.com/Pob6NN0kSC
— CAL FIRE/Riverside County Fire Department (@CALFIRERRU) July 20, 2023
