Brush Fire Near Fashion Valley Mall Leads to Evacuations

Brush Fire Near Fashion Valley Mall Leads to Evacuations

San Diego, CA — February 2, 2026 — A brush fire erupted near Fashion Valley Mall in Mission Valley on Tuesday afternoon, leading to mandatory evacuations as it threatened nearby structures. The fire, known as the Friars Fire, began just after 12:30 p.m. local time and quickly spread, prompting a swift response from local authorities.

Evacuation Orders Issued

The San Diego Fire-Rescue Department confirmed that 20 fire engines, three brush rigs, three helicopters, and additional personnel were dispatched to combat the blaze. The San Diego Police Department issued evacuation orders for nearby areas, including Zones 1894-A, 1975-B, and 1895, citing an immediate threat to life. Major roads, including Friars Road to the CA-163 freeway and Linda Vista Road to Genesee Avenue, were closed to facilitate emergency operations.

Fire Containment Efforts

As of 2 p.m. local time, the fire had scorched three acres and was 0% contained. Firefighters worked diligently to halt the forward progress of the fire, and no injuries or fatalities were reported. The San Diego Fire-Rescue Department expressed gratitude to neighboring cities, including Poway and Chula Vista, for their assistance in managing the incident.

Community Response

Local residents and businesses in the affected areas were urged to follow evacuation orders promptly and stay informed through official channels. The community’s cooperation was vital in ensuring the safety of all individuals during this emergency.

Stay Updated

For the latest updates on the Friars Fire and other local news, residents are encouraged to monitor official communications from the San Diego Fire-Rescue Department and the San Diego Police Department.

Sources

• ‘Friars Fire’ breaks out near Fashion Valley Mall in San Diego, mandatory evacuation ordered | Fox News