On July 21, 2024 at approximately 12:37 p.m., units from the Escondido Fire Department along with an engine from Rancho Santa Fe FPD were dispatched to a residential structure fire near the 1400 block of Gamble Ln. While responding, the first due engine reported black smoke in the area and requested a working fire upgrade. The initial report on conditions from the first arriving unit identified a small residence with fire near the front porch extending towards the attached garage.
Aggressive action by firefighters contained and controlled the fire within 25 minutes, however the small Accessory Dwelling Unity (ADU) sustained significant fire and smoke damage. The resident of the structure as well as a neighbor sustained burn related injuries while attempting to make entry back into the unit to save a pet. Both parties were transported by Escondido Fire Department Paramedics to the UCSD burn center with moderate wounds. One Firefighter sustained a minor injury, he was treated and released by Palomar ER. Unfortunately, the pet inside the residence died from smoke inhalation. A total of 5 engines, 1 truck, 3 rescue Ambulances and 2 Battalion Chiefs arrived at scene. The displaced resident was provided short term financial assistance through the California Fire Foundations SAVE program.
