Editor's note: This is a developing story. We will update this story as new information comes in. Our reporters are currently on scene.
NEEDLES — A brush fire broke out in Needles just after 1 p.m. Saturday, and about an hour after it started, the fire spread across the river into the Mojave Valley.
The cause was unknown as of 2:58 p.m. Saturday. Mohave Valley Fire Chief Ted Martin said they were working to evacuate homes on the west and north sides of Courtright Road as the fire was beginning to close in on the structure.
The fire was initially reported at 1:19 p.m. near milepost 143 on Interstate 40, and multiple agencies in the area are responding.
The San Bernardino County Fire Department said in a 4:01 p.m. update that the fire was 40 to 50 acres in size and “burning with heavy fuels” on both sides of the Colorado River. The department said it had entered into unified command with the Mojave Valley Fire Department.
At 4:18 p.m., SBCF said the fire had grown to a total of 116 acres: 57 acres in California and 59 acres in Arizona. The Needles Highway was closed from Interstate 40 and U.S. Highway 66 at 4 p.m., according to the Colorado River Station.
The mandatory evacuation of Fenders Resort went into effect at 4:24 p.m. The sheriff's office said the Needles Senior Center 1699 Bailey Avenue It is open for evacuees.
Plus, Judy Thornton of the Needles Convention and Visitors Bureau. Announced Needles Rodeo Grounds Anyone evacuating large animals is welcome to call 760-333-5255 for more information. Kathy Jenkins of Oatman Burros Sanctuary is likewise offering assistance with relocating horses that need to be evacuated. Call 928-201-5926 for more information.
