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August 10, 2004, 7:00 p.m. The Calaveras complex fires started August 6, 2004. There were three fires: Armstrong (87 acres), Mineral (879 acres), and Copper (3445 acres) for a total combined acreage of 4,411 acres. The cause of the Armstrong and Mineral Fire has been determined to be arson. The cause of the Copper Fire was a vehicle with mechanical problems. All three fires will be fully contained at 6:00 p.m. this evening with full control expected August 12, 2004, at 6:00 p.m. At the height of the fire, there were approximately 1,200 personnel assigned. There were 2 homes, 1 travel trailer and 8 outbuildings destroyed by fire. There have been 14 injuries, all minor in nature. The cost to date is $4,600,000.00. Fire officials are extremely pleased of the efforts put forth by firefighters battling these fires. They also stated, “It could not have been accomplished without the help of all the local agencies that offered their assistance.” They also realize that burden of evacuations, loss of power, and road closures certainly taxed local residents. -End- |
