SAN DIEGO — Talmadge neighbors came together Tuesday, November 26, to express their gratitude to firefighters and police officers who battled a dangerous blaze that threatened their homes on Halloween.
The Montezuma Fire, which burned perilously close to several residences, damaged six homes and destroyed one beyond repair in the nearby Alvarado Estates.
According to San Diego Fire Rescue, the fire started in or near a homeless encampment. It prompted fears of widespread destruction.
"When I pulled up on the scene, I thought we would lose homes. I thought we were going to lose at least 15 homes, which is where I thought we would be when I rolled up on the scene," said San Diego Fire Rescue Chief Dan Eddy.
He said the weather helped out firefighters. The temperature was in the low 70s, with no wind gusts.
"If we had wind gusts behind that, this might be different," he said.
Residents, many of whom have lived in the area for decades, presented first responders with large cards signed by the community.
A 90-year-old woman whose home in Alvarado Estates was damaged beyond repair was present at the gathering to thank the first responders personally.
The close call has left a lasting impact on the community. One resident recounted the harrowing experience: "My tenant called me [and] said he didn't think the house was going to make it," she said. My husband and I were both at work feeling helpless. Seeing the last 24 years wash before our eyes, we were sure the house would be gone."
Despite the community's preparedness for fire danger, the Halloween blaze caught many off guard. Residents emphasized that while they had taken precautions, the reality of a fire in their neighborhood was deeply unsettling.
The San Diego Fire Department is still investigating the exact cause of the Montezuma Fire. While it's known that the fire originated in or near a homeless encampment, officials have not yet determined if a cigarette, cooking activity, or another source sparked it.