Yearling Fire Prompts Evacuations and Home Damage in Jurupa Valley

A fast-moving vegetation fire broke out on Wednesday afternoon in the Jurupa Valley area of Riverside County, California, prompting mandatory evacuations and resulting in damage to at least one home. The blaze, referred to as the Yearling fire, began around 4 p.m. on the 8500 block of Yearling Way, quickly spreading to cover approximately 34 acres within the first hour, according to county fire officials.

Firefighters from multiple agencies responded with significant resources, including 30 engines, four hand crews, two bulldozers, and a water tender truck. By 7 p.m., officials reported the fire was roughly 25% contained. Riverside County Fire Capt. John Clingingsmith Jr. confirmed that around 110 personnel were involved in the ongoing containment effort.

Mandatory evacuations affected the area stretching from Van Buren Boulevard and Jurupa Road east to Stone Avenue, toward Stone Elementary School, and south to Paisano Way and Limonita Avenue. Authorities advised residents to follow all evacuation orders until conditions improve.

At least two people were transported to a local hospital for potential smoke inhalation, while another was treated at the scene. No homes have been destroyed, but resident Paul Rojas reported significant damage to his property. Rojas credited firefighters and neighbors for saving his house and work studio, though he lost several items, including a power washer, generator, water tank, and log splitter. Rojas also recounted his efforts to save a vintage car from the flames.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation. A person briefly detained by Riverside County Sheriff's Department was released after it was determined they were not connected to the incident.

As of Wednesday evening, firefighting operations and evacuations continued, with officials monitoring hotspots and advising residents to stay informed about further developments.