The Sandy Fire ignited on May 18, 2026 in the hills above Simi Valley, California, burning over 1,600 acres and forcing the evacuation of nearly 44,000 residents. At least one home has been destroyed. The cause of the fire is under active investigation. If you lost your home or property in the Sandy Fire, The Wagner Law Group is here to help. Call 833-200-7111 for a free consultation — no fee unless we win.
What Happened in the Sandy Fire
The Sandy Fire broke out on the morning of May 18, 2026 near Sandy Avenue in Simi Valley, Ventura County. Driven by strong winds, the fire rapidly expanded through the hills north of the city, triggering widespread evacuation orders for tens of thousands of residents.
As of May 20, 2026, the fire has burned over 1,600 acres and is approximately 15% contained. At least one structure has been confirmed destroyed, with additional structures threatened.
What Caused the Sandy Fire
According to the Simi Valley Police Department, a man contacted authorities stating he was clearing brush with a tractor when the equipment struck a rock, causing a spark that may have ignited the fire. Police have stated this is a possibility, but the cause has not been officially confirmed. Cal Fire is continuing its investigation.
As more information becomes available from investigators, we will update this page. If negligence by any party is confirmed as the cause of this fire, affected residents and property owners may have the right to pursue compensation.
What Should Sandy Fire Victims Do Right Now
Even while the investigation is ongoing, there are important steps you can take to protect your legal rights:
- Document all property damage with photos and video before any cleanup
- Keep records of all evacuation-related expenses, hotel stays, and meals
- File a claim with your homeowner’s or renter’s insurance promptly
- Do not sign any releases or accept any settlements without speaking to an attorney first
- Contact a wildfire attorney to evaluate your options as the investigation develops
Who May Be Eligible to File a Claim
If negligence is confirmed as the cause of the Sandy Fire, the following individuals may have valid legal claims:
- Homeowners who lost or suffered damage to their property
- Renters who were displaced by the fire
- Business owners who suffered losses due to the fire or evacuation
- Residents who suffered smoke inhalation or other fire-related injuries
- Families who lost a loved one in the fire
Why Choose The Wagner Law Group
The Wagner Law Group has represented wildfire victims and disaster survivors across California. We monitor developing wildfire cases closely and are prepared to act quickly on behalf of affected residents when liability is established. You pay nothing unless we win.
Call 833-200-7111 or fill out our contact form for a free consultation.
Is the Sandy Fire still burning?
As of May 20, 2026, the Sandy Fire is approximately 15% contained and still active. Evacuation orders remain in place for portions of Simi Valley. Check Ventura County Fire’s official channels for the latest containment updates.
What caused the Sandy Fire?
The cause of the Sandy Fire is officially under investigation by Cal Fire. Simi Valley police received a call from an individual who reported striking a rock with a tractor while clearing brush, potentially causing the ignition. This has not been officially confirmed as the cause.
Can I file a lawsuit over the Sandy Fire?
Potentially, depending on the outcome of the investigation. If negligence by any person, company, or contractor is confirmed as the cause of the fire, affected victims may have grounds to pursue compensation for property damage, lost belongings, living expenses, and other losses. Contact us now to get ahead of the process.
Should I accept my insurance company’s settlement?
Not without consulting an attorney first. Insurance settlements may not fully cover your losses, and accepting a settlement prematurely could limit your ability to recover additional compensation if negligence is later confirmed.
How much does it cost to speak with a wildfire attorney?
Nothing. Our consultations are completely free, and we work on a contingency fee basis — meaning you pay no fees unless we win your case.