Three Units Damaged, Ten Displaced After Fire on Sky Blue Water Trail in Cathedral City

A destructive fire damaged a total of three units and displaced ten residents in a Cathedral City neighborhood, Wednesday afternoon. The blaze ignited around 11:45 a.m. on Sky Blue Water Trail, prompting an immediate response from the Cathedral City Fire Department. Crews battled the flames for about two hours before achieving full containment. Cathedral City Fire Department Battalion Chief Vinny Salazar stated the cause is currently undetermined, but local officials will continue the ongoing investigation. However, neighbors shared suspicions that the fire may have originated from a vehicle parked outside one of the homes.

Eyewitnesses described hearing loud explosions and seeing black smoke fill the air. Neighbor Eric Talamantes attempted to douse the fire with a hose while checking if anyone — or any pets — were trapped inside. Another neighbor, Sebastian Gonzalez, reported hearing multiple booms, reinforcing the belief that vehicles may have been involved.

At this time, the American Red Cross is assisting the ten displaced residents. SoCal Gas crews remain on scene alongside firefighters to ensure the area is safe. Officials will release more details once the fire's origin is confirmed.