On February 19, Escondido responded to reports of a vehicle rollover collision in the area of W Grand Avenue and N Orange Street. Firefighters and EPD Units found the vehicle had struck the sculpture in the raised center median, damaging both the vehicle and sculpture. The driver was transported to a nearby hospital with minor injuries.
Also, on February 19, Escondido Police & Fire Communication Center received reports of a vehicle fire in the Econo Lodge parking lot, located at 515 W. Washington Avenue. Fire crews found a car that was fully engulfed. EPD and Firefighters determined quickly that the vehicle had no occupants. The fire proved to be difficult to control due to a full and leaking fuel tank, so an additional engine was called to respond. Both engines, along with multiple dry chemical extinguishers were used to extinguish the fire. No nearby structures were damaged.
On February 23, the Escondido Police and Fire Emergency Communication Center received reports of a building fire at the intersection of E. Grand Avenue and Bear Valley Parkway. A commercial structure fire response was dispatched to the location. The first arriving Engine Company reported smoke coming from the roof to the rear of the two-story apartment.
Upon entry into the building fire was located in the wall adjoining two apartments. It took firefighters approximately 45 minutes to fully extinguish the fire that had travelled up the wall of the two-story building and into the attic. Although the fire caused significant damage to the wall, Firefighters were able to minimize loss of personal property in the apartments with extensive salvage and overhaul. Four adults and one child were displaced as a result of the fire. The Red Cross was contacted to assist with lodging for two adults. No civilians or firefighters were injured during the incident.
