MONTEREY COUNTY (KRON) – The Soberanes Fire that is burning in Monterey County has turned deadly, Cal Fire officials said Wednesday morning.

Cal Fire officials say a bulldozer operator was killed in the fire. No further details on the death have been released.

The blaze began shortly after 8:45 a.m. Friday at Soberanes Creek in Garrapata State Park, north of Big Sur, and crews expect to reach full containment on August 5, according to Cal Fire.

The Soberanes Fire remains at only 10 percent contained as firefighters continue to aggressively attack the fast moving wildfire.

Nearly 3,000 firefighters are battling the wildfire that has increased to 23,688 acres as of Tuesday evening, officials said.

Cal Fire officials said the blaze had destroyed 20 homes and two outbuildings, while 2,000 structures remained threatened.

The extensive fire has led 300 residents to evacuate from the Palo Colorado community, Old Coast Road, Rocky Creek Road, Bixby Creek Road from state Highway 1 south to Mesa Road, Corona Road east of Highway 1 and Riley Ranch Road east of Highway 1, Cal Fire officials said.

Over 3,000 fire personnel are fighting the fire, including 306 engines and 14 helicopters.

EVACUATIONS WARNINGS:

  • Carmel Highlands
  • White Rock
  • Old Coast Road, south from Bixby Creek Road to Little Sur River
  • Rancho San Carlos

EVACUATION CENTER:

Carmel Middle School located at 4380 Carmel Valley Road, Carmel-By-The-Sea, CA 93923ROAD CLOSURES:

Palo Colorado Road at Hwy 1, Robinson Canyon Road (south of Penon Peak Trail) and Weston Ridge RD at Hwy 1Stay with KRON4 News for updates.