Squatters are believed to be responsible for a fire in Joshua Tree Thursday night. According to Fire Captain Donnie Viloria, a Morongo Basin Ambulance crew smelled the smoke, investigated, discovered the fire in the 6400 block of Sunset Road, and called 911 just after 9:30. Aggressive action by firefighters from Joshua Tree, Yucca Valley, and Yucca Mesa kept the small fire that was burning behind a small vacant home from spreading to nearby businesses and thick vegetation. Evidence at the scene indicated the fire was started by squatters, although the exact cause is under investigation. Damage is estimated at $10,000.
