A vegetation fire named the Little Mountain fire broke out on January 15, 2025, prompting swift action from firefighters and law enforcement officials. The blaze ignited around 2 p.m. near Little Mountain Drive and West Edgehill Road, quickly spreading to approximately 34 acres, according to San Bernardino County Fire Department spokesperson Eric Sherwin.
Crews responded to the scene rapidly, managing to stop the fire’s forward progress at about 3:30 p.m. Firefighters faced challenging conditions due to red flag warnings active across Southern California, which were set to remain until 6 p.m. Winds of 20 to 30 mph, with gusts reaching up to 45 mph, alongside low humidity levels, heightened the risk of fire spread this week.
Fortunately, no injuries or property damages were reported as the flames threatened the tranquil Shandin Hills area, situated near the busy 215 Freeway. Firefighters worked diligently, employing their equipment and techniques expertly to combat the blaze. Videos shared by the San Bernardino County Fire Department captured engines working off-road within the vegetation, underscoring the urgency of their mission to protect both lives and property.
Despite the success of fire crews, local police arrested one individual, who faces two felony charges, including reckless burning, as the investigation moved forward. The San Bernardino Police Department indicated the importance of this arrest, underscoring the seriousness of the act contributing to the fire. Specific details about how the fire started or the individual's identity have not yet been disclosed.
The fire department initially dispatched firefighters at around 2 p.m., with Sherwin noting by 2:45 p.m. the fire had already affected 30 acres. By 5:30 p.m., Little Mountain Drive was closed from Edgehill to Sheridan Road as the emergency response continued. With conditions remaining dry and windy across the region, officials expressed relief at successfully halting the blaze before it could cause significant damage.
Wildfires, unfortunately, have become all too common across Southern California, where summer conditions can carry on well beyond the usual timeframe. While this fire was contained without damage or evacuations, it serves as a reminder of the perpetual danger posed by these conditions. Firefighters continue to battle scorching conditions not only within San Bernardino but throughout the greater region, including large active blazes like the Palisades and Eaton fires, drawing resources and attention.
The swift response by fire and police teams highlights the importance of readiness and coordinated communication when dealing with wildfires. With the region experiencing increasingly severe weather patterns, the risk of wildfires is likely to continue, making such vigilance imperative.