Officials: Summer Sierra foothills wildfire that destroyed dozens of homes, vehicles was arson

Arson blamed for destructive Calif wildfire

SACRAMENTO, Calif. — California fire officials say a summer blaze that destroyed 63 homes in the Sierra foothills was intentionally set.

The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection said Monday that investigators have determined the Aug. 30 wildfire was arson, and actually began as two blazes set about a quarter mile apart.

Officials did not say how the fires were ignited.

The fires eventually met and ripped through the city of Auburn, destroying dozens of homes, vehicles and businesses. The total estimated loss from the fire is $40 million.

The agency is offering a $10,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the person or persons responsible.

On the Net: www.fire.ca.gov/