SAN DIEGO (KGTV) - A fire that burned nearly 40 acres and prompted evacuations in an area near San Diego State University Sunday was set by children, fire officials said Monday. A 12-year-old boy and 12-year-old girl started the fire using a lighter.
Fire officials added Monday afternoon that, as of 4 p.m., the fire was 95 percent contained. The blaze is expected to be fully contained by Monday night.
On Sunday, just after 4 p.m., San Diego firefighters responded to reports of a fire burning near Adobe Falls Road and Del Cerro Boulevard in Del Cerro.
The so-called Adobe Fire threatened several structures and homes, prompting San Diego police to issue mandatory evacuations for at least 60 homes. Several other nearby residents voluntarily evacuated.
As firefighters battled the fire, multiple Interstate 8 lanes were shut down and motorists were diverted off the freeway.
RELATED: Brush fire breaks out near SDSU
By late Sunday evening, crews were able to stop the fire at 38 acres burned. Fire officials said the fire was 100 percent contained as of 8:45 a.m. Monday.
Evacuation orders were lifted by 10 p.m. Sunday, 10News learned.
It remains unclear if the kids will face charges. The investigation into the fire is ongoing, fire officials said.
RELATED: Brush fire in Rancho San Diego burns 10 acres
Meanwhile, crews were expected to remain at the scene to put out any spot fires that flare up during the clean-up effort.
