NEWS RELEASE

September 23, 2008

For more information contact:

Stephanie Smith, Public Information Officer

City of Murrieta

951-304-3473

951-691-9051 

Murrieta Fire Department on Scene to Multiple Vegetation Fires

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – 1600 hours

City of Murrieta – The Murrieta Fire Department is currently attacking multiple vegetation fires within the City.  There have been at least six fires reported, with the largest fire currently at 10 acres.  The Jackson Fire, in the vicinity of Jackson Street and Marco Polo Street, is burning in moderate vegetation.  A structure protection group has been deployed to protect nearby homes. 

The Guava Fire, in Guava Canyon, consists of two ¼ acre fires approximately 300 yards apart.  The fire is out and mop up is continuing.  A small spot fire in the nearby vicinity of Hayes and Guava was reported yesterday and quickly contained.

Eighteen Murrieta Firefighters along with several CAL-Fire Engines are responding to these incidents.  The fires are deemed suspicious in nature and their causes are being investigated. Updates will be provided as additional information becomes available.