by Miriam Raftery | May 19, 2026 7:56 pm
May 19, 2026 (Fallbrook) — Cal Fire investigators have determined the causes of multiple fires within the Mission Fire Series in Fallbrook on May 2 to be fragments from a catalytic converter on a malfunctioning vehicle. This series of fires included 26 separate fire perimeters that burned nearly 20 acres along State Route 76 and Interstate 15.
On May 2 shortly before 11:30 am, firefighters received reports of multiple vegetation fires along State Route 76. This prompted a large multi-agency response, ultimately involving about 150 first responders. Five investigative teams from several agencies were activated to help determine the cause, given the complexity and number of fires, and their distance from one another. Investigators, through a thorough and systematic investigation, identified multiple ignition sources consistent with a malfunctioning exhaust system.
Firefighters stopped the forward spread of all 26 fires within three hours of the first dispatch, then fully controlled them all within nine hours.
“This series of fires highlights the significant investment made by the County of San Diego, the State of California, and our valued public safety partners. Through rapid coordination and an aggressive initial attack, firefighters kept what could have been a devastating wildfire to under 20 acres. There were no injuries and no structures damaged,” said Tony Mecham, Unit and Fire Chief of San Diego County Fire.
Cal Fire reminds motorists that malfunctioning vehicles can start roadside fires, especially when vegetation is dry, and fire risk is high. A failing catalytic converter can cause sluggish acceleration, a rotten-egg or sulfur smell, a check engine light, rattling under the vehicle, and worsening fuel economy. If you notice these problems, have your vehicle checked and repaired immediately to prevent a fire.
Cal Fire thanks the citizens and residents who promptly notified 911 dispatch centers about the multiple fires. Their quick action allowed incident commanders to organize efforts quickly and limit fire spread. The agency also thanks mutual aid partners for their coordinated response, which was key to containing and suppressing these fires.
Source URL: https://eastcountymagazine.org/vehicle-malfunction-caused-mission-fire-series-cal-fire-investigators-determine/
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