Incident: Santiago
Released: 11/1/2007
Acres: 28,400 Acres Percent Containment: 90% Line to Build: 0 miles Estimated Containment: 11/04/07
Equipment:
Hand Crews: 35 Dozers: 17 Engines: 140 Water Tenders: 23
Air Tankers: 4 Helicopters: 13 Overhead Personnel: 228 Total Personnel: 1,638
Injuries: 12 Estimated Cost: $12,100,000
Current Situation: Fire activity was calm on Wednesday with occasional flare ups that fire fighters responded to. The Silverado Canyon area remains a primary concern due to the steep topography and possibility of rolling debris. As a result, the fire continues to threaten structures on private property within the Silverado area. Yesterday's attempt to burn out the island of unburned vegetation on the far eastern side of the fire yesterday met with limited success.
Planned Actions: Maintain public and fire fighter safety. Overnight crews continued to reinforce containment lines and suppress hot spots. Fire fighting equipment remains in the area of Silverado Canyon for structure protection. Another attempt will be made today to burn out the large unburned island of fuel near Modjeska Peak to reduce the threat to containment lines in that area. Crews are preparing for a wind event predicted for Friday.
Arson Investigation: The investigation is being conducted by the Santiago Fire Investigation Team including Orange County Fire Authority, Orange County Sheriff's Department, ATF, and FBI.
The Investigation Team has located the white Ford pick-up truck of interest. The driver has been interviewed and is not considered a suspect. No further tips regarding this vehicle of interest are needed.
There were 30-40 people at the intersection of Blackstar Canyon Rd. and Silverado Canyon Rd. between 5:55pm and 6:15pm the day of the fire. Arson investigators request that anyone who took photos or video at that time, date, and location call the arson tip line at (800)540-8282 to assist with the investigation. For those that have already called the tip line with information, all tips are being answered and contacts being made, so it is not necessary to make repeat tips with the same information.
Evacuations: Mandatory evacuation remains in place for Silverado Canyon.
Road Closures: Silverado Canyon Rd. remains closed at Santiago Canyon Rd.
