On Thursday, August 13th, 2020, at approximately 3:20 pm, the Turlock Fire Department received a call of a working structure fire in the 4200 block of Montara Dr. The Turlock Fire Department responded with Chief 2, Battalion 4, Engine 31, Squad 32, Engine 33, Engine 34, and Fire 12. Additionally, the Ceres Fire Department responded with Battalion 3, Engine 15, and Quint 18, as well as the Modesto Fire Department with Engine 10. Initial reports were that flames were seen from the back of the residence and two small children aged three and eight came out alone saying that they were left unattended.
The first unit to arrive on scene was Engine 34, approximately five minutes after being dispatched. Upon their arrival, they reported seeing smoke and flames coming from the second story window from the back of the residence. Captain 34 assumed Montara command and put Engine 34 in the defensive strategy until additional units arrived on scene. Engine 34’s firefighter then began attacking the rear of the residence from the exterior.
Battalion 4 arrived shortly after Engine 34 and assumed command from Captain 34. Other units then began arriving on scene, including Ceres Battalion 3 and Ceres Engine 15 who happened to already be near Turlock. Once enough units arrived on scene, crews switched over to the offensive strategy. Crews quickly brought the fire under control and extinguished it a short while later.
Crews completed overhaul and salvage and began clearing at approximately 5:30 pm. The fire was contained to the second story of the residence. Due to the extent of the damage caused by the fire, the family living in the residence was displaced and will be provided assistance. American Medical Response responded to provide patient care to the family as well as firefighters. Turlock Irrigation District as well as Pacific Gas and Electric also responded to secure utilities.
Turlock Rural Fire Protection District provided city coverage while crews were committed to the fire. The cause of the fire is currently unknown and is still being investigated. Anyone with information regarding this fire is encouraged to contact Fire Marshal Mark Gomez at 209-668-5580 or by email at MGomez@turlock.ca.us.
