MORNING FIRE DISPLACES FAMILY OF 8 IN EL CAJON: BLAZE FOUND TO BE ARSON

By Miriam Raftery

November 18, 2011 (El Cajon)--Investigators have determined that an early morning house fire in El Cajon was caused by arson, according to Heartland Fire and Rescue.

At 1:40 a.m., Heartland Fire & Rescue in El Cajon responded to reports of a structure fire and found a single story home at 1180 Naranca Avenue with heavy smoke and fire showing.

Fire crews conducted an interior fire attack, and evacuated threatened neighbors. Once the fire was out, fire crews conducted a primary search of the home, locating one dog alive and another deceased. Two additional dogs were missing but have since been located.

Heartland Fire & Rescue Firefighters in El Cajon, with assistance from the San Miguel Fire Protection District and Santee Fire had the fire knocked down in twenty minutes. This home is a total loss, but quick response protected neighboring homes. Damage has been estimated at $150,000. The cause of the fire is now under investigation.

The American Red Cross is now taking care of the family, including seven adults and one child.