Illegal fireworks are to blame for sparking a wildfire in Riverside County that destroyed several homes and caused millions of dollars in damage, arson task force officials in Southern California determined this week.
The fire was fully contained within an established perimeter July 22, according to Riverside city officials. Evacuation orders were lifted Tuesday morning and, later that evening, mutual aid fire departments were released back to their respective agencies, officials said.
She said the Riverside arson task force determined the blaze was started by illegal fireworks.
“Camera footage has shown suspects fleeing the area, and we also have a vehicle of interest that’s being reviewed by investigators,” Ms. Dawson said.
She said the blaze was a reminder of “why fireworks are illegal in our community,” adding that dry brush, varied terrain, and recent high temperatures are “ideal for such disasters.”
Ms. Dawson said that in the 24 hours following the initial outbreak of the fire, response costs and damages have totaled over $11 million.
Authorities said those who spark fires by using them will be held responsible for suppression costs.
“And the losses are not just financial—families have lost their homes, cherished memories, and personal belongings,” Ms. Dawson said.
She also said the damage extended beyond properties and impacted the mental and emotional well-being of affected residents and the broader Riverside community.
“We will take every measure to prevent such incidents in the future,” Ms. Dawson said.
She said investigators would pursue the suspects involved in starting the fire and promised to prosecute them to the full extent of the law. She said Riverside County had “zero tolerance for actions that put our communities at risk and in danger.”
She encouraged anyone with information on the suspects to report it to Crime Stoppers at 800-222-8477.
