Small fire breaks out near Via Monserate

FALLBROOK - A small fire broke out and was quickly extinguished in Fallbrook Dec. 31, in an area not far from where the deadly Lilac Fire swept through just weeks ago.

It was reported about 4 p.m. near the intersection of Mission Road and Via Monserate.

Deputy Glenn Giannantonio of the San Diego County Sheriff's Department said the fire was out by 5 p.m.

Mission Road remained blocked off in both directions as investigators looked into the cause of the blaze, Giannantonio said.

The blaze was just a few miles from the Rancho Monserate Country Club, which was largely destroyed by the Lilac Fire on Dec. 7.