September 27, 2012 – A runaway commercial riding mower caused a smoky, commute-slowing brush fire along the side of westbound State Route 52 Thursday afternoon, near San Diego’s University City neighborhood.
The flames spread west and east in heavy fuel, comprised primarily of thick, reed-like plants, necessitating a special vegetation response.
The mower, which rolled downhill and landed in the brush on the steep hillside leading down to the freeway, was destroyed. According to San Diego Fire-Rescue Department Captain Scuri, on scene with Engine 35, no injuries were incurred as the mower rolled downhill.
The response included SDF-RD Engine 23 and Miramar Rescue 62, initially assigned to structure protection and then reassigned to fight flames from above when it was determined the structures were safe. Engine 28, Engine 35, Engine 41, Brush 14, Brush 35 and Tanker 28 took positions alongside the freeway as crews made their way uphill and through chain link fence to battle the flames from below. Copter 2 made a water drop to control the spread of flames.
Although the flames were extinguished quickly, firefighters employed extensive overhaul with hand tools and foam to ensure the fire would not reignite. San Diego Fire-Rescue Department officials estimated the size of the burn at one acre, located between Genesee Avenue and Interstate 805.
