CHERRY VALLEY, Calif. — The El Dorado Fire burning in the Yucaipa area, where a firefighter was killed fighting the fire, has grown to 22,666 acres and is 92 percent contained.

Earlier this week, the firefighter killed was identified as 39-year-old Charles Morton, a Big Bear Interagency Hotshot Squad Boss.

“Charlie was a well-respected leader who was always there for his squad and his crew at the toughest times,” said U.S. Forest Service Chief Vicki Christiansen. “Our hearts go out to Charlie’s loved ones, coworkers, friends and the Big Bear Hotshots. We will keep them in our thoughts and prayers.”

What You Need To Know

  • Officials confirmed one firefighter was killed fighting the fire on Thursday, September 17

  • The fire has burned 22,666 acres and is 92 percent contained 

  • The fire was sparked by a device being used at a gender-reveal party on the morning of September 5

  • A map of the evacuation area in Riverside County can be found at www.rivcoready.org/ActiveEvents

There are currently 590 personnel battling the fire, which has been burning for 20 days.

Firefighters remain vigilant as fire backs down slopes and burns off the fuels in the remaining areas that have not reached Hwy 38.

Residents of Mountain Home Village, Forest Falls, Angelus Oaks, Seven Oaks and Barton Flats have been allowed to return but remain under an evacuation warning.

Damage assessment teams in the Oak Glen Area have determined that five residences and 15 outbuildings have been destroyed, and that four homes have been damaged.

Residents and businesses can check to see if they are within evacuation order or warning areas by going to the San Bernardino County Sheriffs Interactive Mapping Tool.

 
The Southern California AQMD had issued a Smoke Advisory earlier this week due to smoke from the El Dorado Fire and the Bobcat Fire. Visit www.airnow.gov for air quality updates in your area.
 
A map of the evacuation area in Riverside County can be found at www.rivcoready.org/ActiveEvents.