Arson suspected in Marysville house fire

Investigators suspect arson in a fire that damaged a Marysville home early Monday and displaced three residents.

"It's a potential arson scene and investigators are looking into more ... ," Marysville Police Sgt. Chris Sachs said.

Marysville-CalFire Capt. Mike Crandall estimated damages to the home at around $25,000.

Residents Gabrial Garcia, 39, Tori Garcia, 36, and Mychael Houtman, 33, received assistance from the American Red Cross of Northeastern California for living accommodations, Crandall said.

All three escaped without injury along with their two dogs.

Four firefighters responded about 2:15 a.m. to 2110 Hall St. and extinguished the flames within 13 minutes of the first call, Crandall said.

The fire appeared to start outside the southeast side of the building, possibly in a garbage can. Flames moved through a window and into the attic, authorities said. The cause of the fire is still undetermined.

Firefighters remained on scene until just after 4 a.m. Monday mopping up smoldering patches.

Chief Mike Carr credited a quick response and fast action from firefighters once on scene with preventing heavier damage.

Homeowner Daniel Ferrari said the house was insured with fire protection. Ferrari has owned the rental house for more than 30 years. He praised the Fire Department's fast response.

"They did a great job, they saved the house," Ferrari said. "If they hadn't done such a good job, it could've been a catastrophe."

Ferrari plans to have the damage appraised, but said the Fire Department's $25,000 estimate seemed "extremely high."

Ferrari said he does not believe flames damaged any contents inside the house.

It's unclear if the residents will return to the house. Ferrari said they may have already made plans to move in with nearby relatives.

Anyone with information is asked to call the Marysville Police Department at 749-3900.

CONTACT Rob Parsons at rparsons@appealdemocrat.com or 749-4785. Find him on Facebook at /ADcrimebeat or on Twitter at @ADcrimebeat.