Crews Tackle East County Brush Fire

A brush fire that temporarily threatened structures in the East County on Saturday has stopped spreading, Cal Fire officials said.

As of about 12:45 p.m., Cal Fire officials said crews had a handle on the blaze and the fire had been stopped.

The fire began around 11:15 a.m. Saturday near a shopping center off eastbound Interstate 8 at Los Coches Road. Officials reported large flames -- between 100 to 200 feet -- initially stemming from the area, which is about 500 yards from a Vons grocery store.

Crews from multiple agencies -- including Heartland Fire & Rescue -- rushed to the scene to tackle the fire via ground and air resources.

According to an update posted on the Lakeside Fire Protection District's Twitter page around noon, Lakeside Fire units also assisted in fighting the blaze, which scorched approximately 5 acres.

At 12:15 p.m., Cal Fire officials said the fire was temporarily threatening nearby structures at Lotus Lane and La Cresta Road. However, crews were able to surround the fire before it could spread to any structures.

No injuries were immediately reported. The cause of the fire is under investigation.

Officials from the Lakeside Fire Protection District say the fire originated on the south side of the freeway and then made its way into parts of La Cresta Road.

Officials say residents in the area should be prepared for delays throughout the day, as there are a large number of fire suppression vehicles still at the scene.

Check back for updates on this developing story.

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