At around 12:30 pm Tuesday, the crew from East Contra Costa Fire Protection District Engine 59 observed black smoke coming from the area of Knightsen while they were returning from a call. They requested a structure response as a precaution.
A short time later, Engine 59 located the structure fire in the 3300 block of Knightsen Avenue where a barn was fully involved along with several vehicles/equipment on fire.
Engine 59 requested a second alarm response as several other structures were threatened and they were needing to set up for a rural water supply.
Engine 59 and Engine 53 began fire attack and surrounded the structure which was filled with tools, mechanical equipment and various car parts. As additional units arrived, they were able to control the fire and prevent it from spreading to a other structures and vegetation.
The second alarm was later cancelled as crews were able to respond quickly thanks to Engine 59 Captain requesting units respond when they saw the black smoke.
By 1:19 pm, Battalion Chief 5 deemed the fire extinguished with no injuries reported. It was reported that a person was trapped, however, the elderly person was accounted for after a bystander assisted getting them out of the home.
The cause of the fire was due to unattended welding materials according to Battalion Chief Craig Auzeene.
