Target shooting blamed for causing Labor Day fire south of Lompoc

LOMPOC, Calif. - A vegetation fire that broke out south of Lompoc over Labor Day was sparked by recreational target shooting, according to the Santa Barbara County Fire Department.

The Lito Fire flared up in the Miguelito Canyon area on Monday, Sept. 7. The fire burned about 25 acres before firefighters were able to halt forward progress.

Evacuations were temporarily put into place, but no structures were damaged and no injuries were reported.

Cal Fire, Lompoc Fire Department and the Los Padres National Forest assisted Santa Barbara County Fire with the response.

Investigators concluded that the fire was sparked by recreational target shooting. Now fire officials are warning of the dangers, especially fire hazards, associated with target shooting.

The Santa Barbara County Fire Department reminds all shooting enthusiasts to pay attention to fire hazards and follow local and state guidance and shooting restrictions.