Oceanside CA— The Oceanside Fire Department responded to a report of a structure fire at 4435 Via La Jolla in Oceanside shortly after 11:20 this morning, February 18, 2017. While units were in route, the Fire Department dispatch center (North Comm) reported explosions in the area and multiple homes on fire.

The first Fire Department unit on scene reported a single story duplex with fire to the rear of the structure spreading to the other homes. The fire was also spreading to the attached garage of the unit next door. Fire units made an aggressive attack to the main fire building from the front door and worked their way to the rear of the home to the main body of fire. As other units arrived, they were placed to the rear and sides of the main fire building to cut off fire moving to the exposures.

Two homes and two garages were damaged by smoke and fire. Fire Department units placed at the rear of the structure were able to keep the fire from extending to the other nearby homes. The fire was under control in 30 minutes. Units from Vista Fire and Carlsbad Fire assisted in the fire attack and scene management. Oceanside Building and Water department representatives were also added to the incident to assist.
Damage is estimated at $200,000 for structure and contents. Seven adults from two different homes were displaced by this fire. Red Cross assisted by supplying temporary housing for the displaced residents.
Mutual Aid was provided by Vista and Carlsbad Fire Departments. A total of 39 personnel in 18 units responded to the scene.
This fire was caused by an electrical short outside the structure on the back patio then spread inside and to the home next door.

Gallery photos courtesy of Kevin Johnstone-Carlsbad Fire Department Photographer