The Sheriff’s arson unit is investigating a fire in Morongo Valley early Saturday morning. According to Morongo Valley Fire Chief Jock Johnson, firefighters were called to the 49200 block of Palo Verde Road just after midnight Saturday morning where they found a 3,600-square foot residence 75 percent involved in flames. Initial reports were that a child was trapped inside the residence, but Johnson said despite tearing down walls inside the home and staying at the residence until 1 p.m. Saturday afternoon, firefighters found no evidence of a child inside. Johnson said there were no injuries. The home is a total loss. Morongo Valley firefighters were assisted by Yucca Valley, CalFire, and Desert Hot Springs. The cause of the fire is under investigation.
