Five Fires Set Near Mountain Community
Five fires near Twin Peaks in the San Bernardino Mountains on Monday brought fire crews and officers from seven agencies to subdue the flames and look for a suspected arsonist.
The first fire was reported at 9:22 a.m. at Highway 189 and Pinecrest Road, authorities said. In the next three hours, officials found four other fires -- all burning a quarter acre or less. The fires stretched from Highway 18 to Lake Arrowhead. More than 120 firefighters fought the flames, using 15 fire engines and two helicopters. Crews put out the fires by early afternoon.
The fire burned in trees, not brush, said U.S. Forest Service Officer Melody Lardner. “That’s what was pretty scary, because the potential for it to spread is higher in the trees.”
Authorities suspect arson and dozens of officers combed the area, including some from the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s arson and bomb unit.
Officials urged those with information about the fires or suspected arsonist to call investigators at (909) 382-2699.
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