A fast-moving wildfire erupted near the La Cresta community in unincorporated Murrieta on Tuesday, scorching 75 acres and triggering evacuations as firefighters swarmed the blaze from the ground and the air.
The Volcano Fire broke out around 2:52 p.m. near Via Volcano and Tenaja Road and remained 0% contained Tuesday afternoon, according to CAL FIRE. The cause is under investigation.
More than 125 firefighters were battling the flames, backed by 19 fire engines, three helicopters, two bulldozers, four hand crews and numerous air tankers from across California dropping retardant as conditions allowed, according to myvalleynews.com.
Authorities shut down Tenaja Road between Avocado Mesa and Avenida La Cresta, along with Los Gatos Road at Carancho Road, as crews raced to keep the flames from spreading.
Residents forced from their homes were told to head to Chaparral High School in Temecula, where pets are also being accepted.
VEGETATION FIRE – Rpt @ 2:50 p.m. Via Volcano / Tenaja Rd. in La Cresta. Firefighters are on scene of five acres of vegetation burning in medium fuels. Multiple air and ground resources are assigned. Updates will be posted as information becomes available.#VolcanoFIRE… pic.twitter.com/NwQ9n396k4
— CAL FIRE/Riverside County Fire Department (@CALFIRERRU) July 7, 2026
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Large animals are being sheltered at the Murrieta Equestrian Center.
Authorities urged the public to stay out of the area so emergency crews can move freely and evacuation routes remain clear.
