Fresno Firefighters Save Homes While Battling Two Alarm Blaze

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- Two garages off of Van Ness Avenue caught fire just before lunch and flames quickly raced towards neighboring century-old homes.

Fresno crews could be seen on nearby rooftops watching the fire inch closer and ready with hoses. Firefighters quickly attacked the fire, preventing it from spreading.

"This is definitely a win in that regard, both of those houses didn't receive any fire damage," said Fresno Fire Public Information Officer Koby Johns.

Thick, black smoke billowed into the sky above Downtown alerting the community. Richard Burrell thought the worst when he saw it.

"It's scary to leave and see smoke and think it's possibly your home," said neighbor Richard Burrell.

Nearly 40 firefighters worked to contain the blaze. The garages and everything in them were completely destroyed but everyone is grateful this fire wasn't worse.

The total damage is estimated at $100,000 and the cause is still under investigation, Johns says.