Sandy Fire erupts in Simi Valley after tractor strikes rock, authorities say ‘nothing criminal’

SIMI VALLEY, CALIFORNIA: Investigators have identified what sparked the rapidly spreading Sandy Fire, which tore across Simi Valley on Monday, May 18, triggering widespread evacuations, destroying a home, and threatening hundreds of residents.

The Sandy Fire was first reported around 10 am in the hills above Simi Valley, about 30 miles northwest of Los Angeles.

By mid-afternoon, the blaze had scorched more than 500 acres of dry brush and reduced at least one home to ash, according to the Ventura County Fire Department.

Tractor sparks blamed for Sandy Fire outbreak

Investigators believe the Simi Valley fire may have started when a tractor clearing brush struck a rock, creating sparks that ignited the dry landscape.

The Simi Valley Police Department said it received a call around 10:17 am from an individual who reported striking a rock while operating machinery.

While the investigation into the incident remains ongoing, authorities do not believe criminal activity was involved, Sgt Rick Morton said.

"I'm sure, civilly, maybe somebody will be held liable later, but we're not looking at anything criminal at this point," he added.

More than 500 firefighters from Ventura County, LA County, and CAL FIRE are actively working at the scene to contain the fire. 

“Fire personnel are currently on the scene of a fast-moving brush fire originating in the area of Sandy Avenue in Simi Valley. The fire is currently estimated at 184 acres and is threatening structures. Evacuation Orders and Warnings have been issued for the area,” an alert said.

Aerial footage of the fire showed clouds of thick smoke, several water-dropping helicopters, and residents evacuating their homes.

Mandatory evacuations issued as Sandy Fire spreads

As the wildfire rapidly intensified, Ventura County officials issued mandatory evacuation orders for several neighborhoods in Simi Valley, a city of more than 125,000 people that was shrouded in smoke.

Evacuation centers were opened at Rancho Santa Susana Community Park to shelter displaced residents, while large animals were moved to the Ventura County Fairgrounds for safety.

Officials said powerful wind gusts intensified the wildfire, making containment efforts more difficult and increasing the danger to nearby homes and critical infrastructure.

Schools across affected areas implemented emergency safety measures, while multiple road closures and traffic disruptions spread through parts of Simi Valley as first responders worked to keep evacuation routes clear.

Ventura County emergency officials urged residents to stay alert, closely follow official updates, and comply with evacuation orders immediately, warning that fire behavior could change rapidly.

Although forecasts indicated winds might weaken later Monday, firefighting crews remained on high alert amid fears the volatile blaze could continue to spread unpredictably.