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August 9, 2004, 8:00 a.m. Copper Fire 3,445 Acres 95% Contained Mineral Fire 876 Acres 85% Contained Armstrong Fire 87 Acres 95% Contained Started August 6, 2004, with full containment expected August 10, 2004 at 6:00 p.m. Investigators have determined that Arson was the cause of the Armstrong and Mineral Fires. According to Fire Investigator Richard Imlach, from the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection, the first of two small fires were started along Armstrong Road approximately two miles East of the town of Sheep Ranch. These fires were contained at three acres and one acre respectively. They were immediately followed by two additional fires; the Armstrong and Mineral Fires which were started off of Sheep Ranch Road. Investigators believe that the arsonist(s) traveled a route that took them West on Armstrong Road, then South along Sheep Ranch Road. Investigators are urging anyone that may have any information or witnessed any suspicious vehicles or activity in this area around 2:00 p.m. on Friday, August 6, 2004, to contact the Arson Tip Line (800) 468-4408 or Chief Imlack at (209) 532-0821. Investigators have determined that the Copper Fire, which began as three separate fires, was caused by exhaust from a vehicle traveling East Bound on Highway 4. Engines: 177 All evacuation orders have been lifted. Fullen Road is open to residents only at 8:00 p.m. this evening. There were 2 homes and 7 outbuildings destroyed by fire. There have been seven minor injuries reported. Total cost of the fire to date is $3,600,000.00. -End- |
