Brush fire burns 3 acres in Ventura

VENTURA, Calif. (KABC) -- A 3-acre brush fire erupted in Ventura Saturday night, causing a temporary closure for both directions of the 101 Freeway and eastbound 126 Freeway.

Ventura Fire Department firefighters responded to two fires near the northbound 101 Freeway and eastbound 126 Freeway interchange around 10 p.m.

Initially, the blazes were deemed threats to a nearby mobile home community, but firefighters later said the area was safe.

About 52 firefighters ended up splitting between two fires that eventually merged and charred 3 acres. The blaze was driven by strong winds and heavy brush. Flames reached as high as 40 feet, firefighters said.

The blaze was eventually contained and knocked down by 2 a.m. Sunday. No injuries were reported.

Firefighters believe the fire originated from a nearby homeless encampment, but the cause remains under investigation.