Paso Robles investigates 4 suspicious fires in the Salinas Riverbed

Four fires broke out within the Salinas Riverbed in Paso Robles on Saturday and are considered to be “suspicious in nature,” according to a news release from the Department of Emergency Services.

The first three fires were reported by 9:39 a.m. and were fully contained at 0.51 acres by 12:38 p.m. Each was located close to the wastewater plant off of Sulfur Springs Road.

The fourth fire was reported at 1:39 p.m. in a homeless encampment south of Highway 46 East, but it never made contact with nearby vegetation. Paso Robles Fire and Emergency Services extinguished the blaze quickly, according to the release.

A total of 12 engines from Paso Robles and Cal Fire SLO responded to the fires.

Wildfire danger is especially high due to dry vegetation, according to the release. Paso Robles Fire and Emergency Services urges caution during Fourth of July celebrations.