Local schools shut down as fire engulfs nearly 7000 acres

A wildfire in the mountains of San Bernardino County grew to nearly 7,000 acres and shut down local schools Tuesday. 

The Pilot fire has scorched 6,963 acres and is 6% contained, said U.S. Forest Service spokesman Bob Poole. An estimated 5,000 homes are under voluntary and mandatory evacuation orders, Poole said.

Since it was first reported about noon Sunday, the fire spread quickly in dry brush and timber. The cause of the fire is under investigation. (c:Brittny Mejia)