CHERRY VALLEY (CNS) - A diesel vehicle emitting combustibles from its exhaust system ignited the 26,000-acre Apple Fire that started in Cherry Valley and is now raging in the mountains within the San Bernardino National Forest, authorities announced Monday, Aug. 3 afternoon.
According to Cal Fire investigators, the malfunctioning vehicle was leaking burning matter from its exhaust pipe, triggering three separate blazes that eventually merged into one about 5 p.m. Friday in the area Apple Tree Lane and Oak Glen Road.
``The determination is reinforced by multiple independent witnesses, as well as supporting physical evidence,'' according to a Riverside County Fire Department statement.
``Officers are seeking information from anyone who may have seen a vehicle which appeared to have mechan
