A fast-moving structure fire gutted a residence on Ramona Bowl Road Tuesday evening, displacing five adults and reducing the home to a total loss after flames tore through a crawl space stocked with personal belongings — including propane tanks.
CAL FIRE units responded at approximately 5:30 p.m. to find the home fully involved upon arrival. Despite the efforts of responding crews, the residence could not be saved.
The blaze originated in a roughly six-foot crawl space beneath the home, where the family had stored numerous items alongside propane tanks. Family members inside quickly detected smoke and flames spreading under the structure, prompting one relative to rush through the home and urge everyone to get out immediately.
The evacuation grew tense when an 80-year-old grandmother began moving through the burning home, attempting to gather belongings before fleeing. Relatives intervened, physically pulling her outside as conditions deteriorated around them. Smoke soon began pushing through the flooring, and within moments the fire had consumed the structure, burning through the roof before firefighters could gain control.
No injuries were reported and no occupants required medical transport.
Officials confirmed at least one dog was accounted for at the residence, though whether additional pets were present at the time of the fire has not yet been confirmed.
The American Red Cross was activated to assist the five displaced adults. Hope Restored Restoration also responded, offering extended support to the affected family in the days following the loss.
The cause of the fire has not yet been officially confirmed. This is a developing story.