Founder and Managing Partner
OCEANSIDE, Calif. —
As of 8:30 p.m. Saturday, San Diego County officials have lifted the water contact closure. Beach goers are advised that bacteria levels meet state health standards.
Crews continue their ongoing efforts to completely stop any hotspots from the Oceanside Pier as it steps into its third day since the fire broke out. The blaze damaged a former restaurant, left debris along the shore and a community at loss.
“You can actually see through the flames now, it’s literally a skeleton of what it used to be,” Trevor Perrelli said.
The City of Oceanside said that the fire was first reported at about 3 p.m. Thursday. Crews worked for hours until they finally got the blaze under control. Investigators are still figuring out what started the fire in the first place.
“There’s nobody surfing, and it’s just a shock that the pier is closed and damaged,” Cathy Hinchliff said.
Yellow signs are posted along the shore alerting people to stay away from the water. The sign also reads ‘Water contact may cause illness.’ Fire officials are urging the community to avoid the water in the beach zone closure between Tyson Street and Surfrider Way.
For many people, the Oceanside Pier represents years of memories. It’s a major shock for the community to see it in these conditions.
“ I actually was brought to tears,” Francine Lypps said.
It’s emotional for many people to see an iconic staple in North County damaged by fire.
The Oceanside Fire Department said in a press release that operations are ongoing, including identifying any hotspots and cooling them with water to prevent reignition. They also add that a fire engine will be on fire watch Saturday night.
WATCH RELATED: Oceanside Pier fire under control, but still smoldering
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