Fires spark along Highway 101 in Salinas

Multiple fires sparked along Highway 101 in Salinas on Friday at around 4 p.m.

At least seven spot brush fires burned, extending from John Street all the way down close to Abbott Street businesses off of Highway 101 southbound.

It only took about 30 minutes for firefighters to contain the flames. Firefighters are looking into whether all seven fires were intentionally set.

“We did have have a report from one of the people who called 911 that said that they saw a black Honda that was potentially throwing incendiary devices such as firecrackers out of their windows as they drove south and then turned around and drove north,” said Salinas Deputy Fire Chief Brett Loomis.

Loomis says they do not have any other descriptions of that car or the people inside, but they will be investigating the allegation.

“I think that’s crazy, that is very crazy. I mean, we have seen…on the news all the fires that are happening…and you have some crazy guy starting fires. That’s ridiculous,” said Marina Cruz, a Salinas resident who commented on the possibility of Friday’s fire being arson.

“We’ve investigated the various fire areas,” said Loomis. “We’ve found no specific evidence that a firecracker was or was not used, but often times, remnants of those devices are consumed in the fire.”

Loomis says during summer and fall, they do see cars accidentally dragging chains or having problems with their mufflers causing these types of fires, but he has also seen cases of arson.

Sometimes it is hard to find those responsible.

“During the summertime, we had a series of about 30 different vegetation fires in the Natividad Creek Park area that were intentionally set. We were unable to locate the suspect,” said Loomis.

The fires on Friday were not large enough to warrent any Cal Fire assistance. If fire investigators do find evidence of arson, police will then get involved.

“At this time, the cause of the fires is officially undetermined,” said Loomis.

The fires have been fully contained.

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A brush fire ignited along Highway 101 in Salinas.

The flames sparked just after 3:30 p.m. Friday near Airport Boulevard.

The California Highway Patrol told KION there are also reports of a fire on Highway 101 at John Street.

Drivers can expect traffic delays.

No word yet on how the fires started.

This is a breaking news story. Check back for updates.