A fire that merged into two fires threatened structures and caused residents to evacuate near the Santa Ana riverbed in Jurupa Valley Monday afternoon. The fire also threatened an animal shelter along Van Buren Boulevard.
Police closed Van Buren as flames burned underneath the bridge sending thick heavy smoke through the area. Dozens of engines and a few water dropping helicopters and two air tankers worked into the evening to douse the flames.
By nightfall, evacuation orders were lifted for several neighborhoods near the Santa Riverbed, but Van Buren remained closed at the bridge. Crews will remain at the scene overnight to mop up hot spots.
