Humboldt Bay Fire press release: 

At approximately 0324 hours on 12-08-14, Humboldt Bay Fire was dispatched to a report of a structure fire with occupants still inside near Herrick Avenue and Pinecrest.  HBF responded with a first alarm assignment of 15 personnel including three engines, one ladder truck, and two Chief officers.

The first arriving Humboldt Bay Fire unit reported a two story residence with a vehicle on fire in the driveway, with possible fire spread to the attached garage two-feet in front of the vehicle. The crew attacked the fire in the vehicle, and checked for fire spread. The fire was knocked down and controlled within approximately 5 minutes of arrival. The fire caused paint damage to two other vehicles parked in the driveway next to the fire vehicle, and cracked three windows in the garage door, but did not spread to the interior.

Crews began an investigation and determined that the fire located in the passenger compartment appeared suspicious. Humboldt County Sheriffs Office was requested to the scene to assist with the investigation. At this time the fire is suspicious and remains under investigation. Preliminary damage estimates show approximately $20,000 in damage to the vehicles and the structure.  

Humboldt Bay Fire would like to remind residents to exit the structure if a vehicle is on fire in the driveway. In the event of fire spread to the building, occupants could become trapped if not already out. Exit the structure and move to a safe area, and let the arriving firefighters know if everyone is out and accounted for.