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Independent Review Launched for Deadly 2024 Mountain Fire
1 Feb
Summary
- Cal Fire will review Ventura County Fire Department's operations.
- A small tractor-sparked wildfire led to the destructive Mountain Fire.
- The Mountain Fire destroyed nearly 400 buildings and burned 20,000 acres.
Cal Fire will conduct an independent operational review of the Ventura County Fire Department's response to the 2024 Balcom Fire. This small wildfire, initially burning just 1.8 acres, was later determined to be the cause of the destructive Mountain Fire. The Mountain Fire, which ignited on November 6, 2024, devastated the community, burning nearly 20,000 acres and destroying approximately 400 buildings.
The Balcom Fire began on October 30, 2024, sparked by a tractor clearing brush. According to investigators, extreme winds a week later dislodged hot debris from the tractor's tire, reigniting the fire and carrying it beyond containment to start the Mountain Fire. "It's important that we learn from this tragic event and continuously strive to improve," said VCFD Chief Dustin Gardner.
Cal Fire Director Joe Tyler commended Chief Gardner and the Ventura County Fire Department for their "proactive and transparent approach." The review, led by Southern Region Chief Mike van Loben Sels and Cal Fire San Diego Unit Chief Tony Mecham, will examine operational decisions and command during the Balcom Fire, aiming to enhance effectiveness, firefighter safety, and public trust.
