Cal Fire investigators determined arson was the cause of the "Eagle Fire", which was now 75 percent contained, said Cal Fire Battalion Chief Nick Schuler. Firefighters expect to have the blaze under control Saturday.
The cost of fighting the blaze, which has charred more than 14,100 acres in seven days, has increased to nearly $13 million, Cal Fire officials said Thursday.
About 2,040 firefighters have battled the fire in steep, rocky terrain on the Los Coyotes Indian Reservation and Anza Borrego State Park since July 21, Schuler said. Fifteen firefighters have been injured.
Also deployed in the firefighting effort were seven air tankers, 20 helicopters, 76 fire engines, 30 water trucks and 18 bulldozers, according to Cal Fire.
One outbuilding has been destroyed since the fire broke out along Eagles Nest Road near Camino San Ignacio, about five miles east of Warner Springs.
The fire, which has moved over mountainous terrain covered with grass, brush, and oak and pine trees, prompted authorities to close Borrego Palm Canyon Campground and Lost Valley Boy Scout Camp until further notice.
Along with Cal Fire, agencies taking part in the effort include: The San Diego County Fire Authority; U.S. Forest Service; Bureau of Indian Affairs; The San Diego County Sheriff's Department; and California's Department of Parks and Recreation; Department of Corrections; Conservation Corps; and National Guard.
