Sheriff’s detectives investigate residential fire that killed three people
By SDCN Editor
El Cajon, CA–The Sheriff’s Department Bomb and Arson Unit is investigating a deadly residential fire that killed three members of a family Thursday in the unincorporated area of El Cajon.
The Sheriff’s Department received calls, just before midnight, about a home and vehicle that were on fire in the 900 block of North Anza Street.
A Sheriff’s ASTREA helicopter and deputies arrived within minutes to find the structure fully engulfed. Firefighters from San Miguel, Heartland, Santee, and Lakeside Fire Departments responded to the scene.
Firefighters pulled two people from the structure and immediately placed them in ambulances for transport to a hospital. Both were pronounced dead shortly after arriving at the hospital, Sheriff’s Department Sergeant Anthony Portillo stated in a news release.
A third person suffered smoke inhalation and was taken to a hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.
While putting out the flames, firefighters found a deceased person inside the home.
The Medical Examiner’s Office will identify the three victims, as well as determine the cause and manner of death once their families have been notified.
Sheriff’s Bomb and Arson detectives responded to the scene to determine the origin and cause of the fire. The investigation is ongoing.
