Simi Valley Wildfire Forces 29,000 to Flee as Officials Probe Possible Arson

Overview

• The Sandy Fire remains uncontained in Simi Valley near Los Angeles after igniting near Sandy Avenue.
• Evacuation orders cover more than 29,000 residents, with about 13,000 more told to stay ready to leave.
• Authorities have opened a criminal investigation into whether the blaze was set on purpose.
• Santa Ana winds with gusts near 80 km/h are spreading embers and slowing progress as more than 750 responders deploy helicopters and air tankers.
• Dozens of homes are reported destroyed, schools are closed, and shelters are housing people and animals, with no deaths or injuries confirmed.