Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Today in History: El Dorado Fire Extinguished After 71 Days

11/16/2025

23 3

Summary

Story summary

The El Dorado Fire in California was extinguished on November 16, 2020, after burning for 71 days. Ignited by a pyrotechnic device during a gender reveal party, the wildfire scorched 22,744 acres across San Bernardino and Riverside counties, resulting in the destruction of 20 structures and the death of one firefighter. The couple responsible faced involuntary manslaughter charges.

1 of 1

Story summary

The El Dorado Fire in California was extinguished on November 16, 2020, after burning for 71 days. Ignited by a pyrotechnic device during a gender reveal party, the wildfire scorched 22,744 acres across San Bernardino and Riverside counties, resulting in the destruction of 20 structures and the death of one firefighter. The couple responsible faced involuntary manslaughter charges.