RIVERSIDE - A 30,000-acre fire in November that spread across four counties and damaged or destroyed more than 350 homes and other structures was most likely triggered by a vehicle's exhaust, a Riverside County fire captain said today.

The Freeway Fire, also known as the Triangle Fire, started around 9 a.m. Nov. 15 near the Green River community, on the western edge of Corona, along the Riverside (91) Freeway. Intense offshore winds pushed the flames down the Santa Ana River Canyon into Anaheim Hills and Yorba Linda.

The fire merged with a wildfire originating in Brea, blackening 30,305 acres over four days before the 3,760 state, county and municipal fire crews battling the blaze had it fully contained.

At its height, the fire threatened 1,800 homes, and 40,000 residents from more than a dozen communities were evacuated, mainly in Orange and San Bernardino counties.

No fatalities or major injuries were reported in connection with the fire. Damage was estimated to be in excess of $15 million.

"The investigation points toward catalytic converter discharge or carbon discharge" from a vehicle as the cause of the fire, said Riverside County fire Capt. Fernando Herrera. The conclusion came following an investigation led by Cal Fire.

"Cal Fire would like to remind everyone that even the smallest ignition source could start a wildfire," Herrera said. "The grass and brush throughout Southern California is extremely dry due to drought conditions. Residents and visitors are urged to be cautious so they don't accidentally start a devastating fire."

Be the first to share your opinion on this article!