Fire damages home in Tierra Mesa

A Yuma residence in the Tierra Mesa Estates neighborhood sustained heavy structural damage Monday from a fire that started in the garage.

Crews from Rural/Metro and Marine Corps Air Station Yuma Fire Department arrived on scene to contain the fire, which was reported at 1:30 p.m. by the male resident, according to Charly McMurdie, public information officer for Rural/Metro.

McMurdie explained that the garage was completely damaged as well as the family’s SUV parked in the driveway. “The garage is a complete loss and there is smoke, water and fire damage throughout the house.”

She noted that the fire was put out fairly quickly after the units arrived. “The problem comes with all the heat, smoke and the rekindling.”

McMurdie said the female resident was at work and the male resident was across the street at a neighbor’s home when he discovered the fire and called it in.

The fire resulted in the death of a pet cocker spaniel. Two additional dogs and a cat were safely rescued and are being taken care of by a family friend.

McMurdie commented that they had to treat one of the rescued dogs with oxygen, and the animal is now in stable condition.

She reported that five Rural/Metro engines were sent to the location with mutual aid from the MCAS Fire Department and that the units cleared the premise by 4 p.m.

Local Red Cross volunteers were also on scene to assist the residents in finding temporary lodging.

The cause of the fire is still under investigation.