Brush Fire In Perris Sends Smoke Across Region

PERRIS, CA — A wildfire caused by arson on the west end of Perris burned 4.5 acres and was 40 percent contained Friday morning.

The Navajo Fire was reported about 4:45 p.m. Thursday in the area of Navajo Road and Highway 74, according to the Riverside County Fire Department.

Evacuations were ordered in the area of Park Avenue as flames moved quickly toward properties in the area. The order was lifted around 7 p.m. as crews established protective lines to keep the fire from reaching the homes, the department said.

Progress of the fire was stopped at 5:30 p.m. and authorities later said around the fire was 40 percent contained.