Cruces and Windmill Fire Causes Determined

Windmill Fire in Buellton (Photo: Mike Eliason)

Source: Santa Barbara County Fire Department

The Santa Barbara County Fire Department Fire Investigators have determined the cause of the two vegetation fires that burned nearly 200 acres last week in Santa Barbara County.

The Cruces fire which started on July 18, burned 77 acres and was fully contained on July 22 was determined to be caused by an automobile traveling northbound on Hwy.1. Fire was determined to be accidental.

The Windmill fire which started on July 20, burned 110 acres and was fully contained on July 23 was determined to be caused by a tractor operating in an agricultural field causing the nearby vegetation to catch fire.

It is important for Santa Barbara County residents to responsibly maintain their vehicles and farm equipment to help prevent wildfires.