Escondido Fire Department

Escondido names new fire chief

Escondido Fire Department changes its guard in two weeks as Deputy Fire Chief Russell “Russ” Knowles replaces Chief Mike Lowry who retires after nearly 34 years with Escondido Fire. Lowry departs on June 3. Knowles takes command on June 5. As for Saturday, June 4? Don’t cry for Escondido, it’ll be fine, officials say. Knowles’ salary will be $183,214 annually. He’s no piker either, having…


Long night’s fiery (vehicles) journey into day at Eagles Point Apartments

Dazed and confused residents of Eagles Point Apartments at 1501 E Grand Avenue were reeling from a series of vexing vehicle fires early Wednesday morning. The jury remains out whether the fires were accidental or set by arsonists. The long night’s fiery journey into day started around 1 a.m. when Escondido Fire Department units responded to a report of three vehicles — a car, SUV…


Unwanted firearms, bogus fire inspections, CSU faculty strike, hops

Unwanted firearms for Wal-mart gift cards, anyone? The San Diego County Sheriff’s Office is planning to use up to $28,500 in confiscated funds to offer Walmart gift cards to North County residents willing to turn over unwanted firearms. The latest installment of the department’s “Guns for Gift Cards” program is scheduled for 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 24 at the San Marcos station,…