On Saturday, August 9, 2014, at 3:35 p.m., Arcadia Firefighters responded to a reported brush fire in the Peck Road Water Conservation Park, in the 5400 Block of North Peck Road, Arcadia. Upon arrival, Arcadia Fire Battalion Chief Cody Cerwin reported a brush fire burning freely in the basin. Firefighters immediately began suppression and search and rescue operations.
High temperatures, low humidity, dry conditions, and moderate winds contributed to the rapid growth of the fire, which quickly encompassed nearly ten acres. Approximately 150 firefighters from Arcadia, Monrovia, Pasadena, San Gabriel, and Los Angeles County Fire Departments joined forces to battle the blaze, including air support and hand crews from Los Angeles County Fire Department.
The fire extended to a nearby automobile salvage yard, where several vehicles were burned. Firefighters suppressed the fire within an hour and continue to monitor and extinguish spot fires at this time.
Although the exact cause of the fire remains under investigation, fire investigators are on scene and have identified the origin of the fire in a homeless encampment in the gravel pit. No injuries or loss of life have been reported.
About the City of Arcadia
Nestled in the foothills of the San Gabriel Mountains, Arcadia is an 11.38 square mile community with a population of just over 56,000. Located approximately 20 miles east of downtown Los Angeles, Arcadia is known for combining small-town charm with the conveniences and amenities of a mid-size city. Arcadia is a full-service charter city governed by a five-member City Council, elected at large. Recognized for exceptional education and recreation opportunities and beautiful neighborhoods, Arcadia is also defined as the “Community of Homes” and has twice been designated the “Best City in California in which to Raise Kids” by Business Week Magazine.