Crime & Safety

Family was Unaware While Fire Grew in Their Garage

Flames consumed a garage and portions of a house late Monday night.

Four family members were unaware of the flames that had begun to burn in their home late Monday night until a neighbor began pounding on their door, according to Battalion Chief Jim Crawford of the South Santa Clara County Fire Protection District.

There were no injures during the fire at 130 Bennet St., he said. The initial call reporting the flames was placed at 10:41 p.m., and the incident was considered under control at 11 p.m., according to the city’s communication center.

Firefighters from three separate agencies fought the fire from several angles, including punching holes in the roof for ventilation and entering the house itself.

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While the fire was under control within 20 minutes, extensive work followed to ensure that the hot material inside the house was sufficiently cooled.

The fire is still under investigation but likely began in the home’s garage, said Crawford. Firefighters removed piles of scorched furniture and other items from the home.

Find out what's happening in Gilroywith free, real-time updates from Patch.

The Gilroy Fire Department, South Santa Clara County Fire Department and CAL FIRE responded to the incident, said Crawford.


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