A devastating wildfire that tore through Riverside County over the weekend, destroying homes and forcing evacuations, has been traced back to illegal fireworks, according to Riverside Mayor Patricia Lock Dawson. The blaze, known as the Hawarden Fire, has caused extensive damage, leaving the community reeling and authorities in search of the individuals responsible.

Fire Breaks Out in Riverside

The Hawarden Fire erupted Sunday afternoon around 2 p.m. in Riverside’s Alessandro Heights neighborhood, near Hawarden Drive and Mary Street. Fueled by high temperatures and dry conditions, the fire quickly spread, burning through 527 acres before crews were able to contain it by Thursday, according to Cal Fire.

The fire’s destruction was substantial. At least six homes were completely destroyed, while seven others were damaged. The total financial toll of the fire is currently estimated at $10 million. Fortunately, no injuries were reported, but the disaster has left many families displaced and searching for answers.

Search for Arson Suspects

Authorities have released new video footage showing three young arson suspects fleeing the scene of the fire’s origin point. The suspects were seen driving away in a silver pickup truck, and investigators are working to identify and apprehend them. Riverside Police are urging the public to come forward with any information that might assist in their capture.

Mayor Dawson expressed her frustration, noting that more than $1 million has already been spent on efforts to control and extinguish the fire. The reckless use of fireworks in an area vulnerable to wildfires has only intensified the community’s outrage.

Federal Assistance

In response to the disaster, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) announced that federal funds will be allocated to support California in combating the Hawarden Fire. This financial relief will aid in recovery efforts and provide much-needed resources to those affected.

As of Monday, all evacuation orders and warnings have been lifted. While firefighters remain on high alert, the worst of the fire has passed, and residents are beginning the difficult process of rebuilding their lives.

Another Fire Adds to the Chaos

The Hawarden Fire wasn’t the only blaze to ignite over the weekend. A second wildfire, the Eagle Fire, broke out east of Corona, near Eagle Canyon and Cajalco roads. This fire burned a staggering 1,710 acres before crews were able to fully contain it by Tuesday. Fortunately, all evacuation orders and warnings related to the Eagle Fire have been lifted, but the twin blazes have left Riverside County residents wary of future fire risks.

Fire Danger Persists Amid Heatwave

The fires occurred during an intense heatwave that elevated fire danger across Southern California. Forecasters had warned of critical fire weather conditions, particularly in the valleys, mountains, and desert areas, as temperatures soared through Thursday.

As Riverside County residents work to recover, authorities continue to search for the arson suspects linked to the Hawarden Fire. The damage has been immense, and the community remains on edge, hoping those responsible for this disaster will soon be brought to justice.