Fire damages homes, carport

The Colusa Fire Department responded to a structure fire Wednesday that destroyed a carport and damaged homes on Fremont Street.

Nearly 20 firefighters from Colusa, along with backup from Sacramento River Fire, contained the blaze at 249 Fremont St. in about 45 minutes, according to Colusa Fire Chief Randy Dunn.

The Office of Emergency Services in Williams provided assistance with breathing apparatuses, as firefighters worked through heavy smoke to knock down the flames.

Dunn said the fire started in the carport, which was fully engulfed when firefighters arrived. It spread to the garage at 241 Fremont, which was also destroyed.

Both homes suffered smoke damage, but nothing major, Dunn said. The fence and siding at 255 Fremont was also damaged.

Three Rivers Chapter of the American Red Cross, Colusa County Branch, aided by Impact Life, were called later in the evening to assist the residents of 249 Fremont find short-term lodging, when it became evident that the smoke-filled home was not habitable.

An expectant mother with a small child and her boyfriend were able to retrieve some of their personal possessions from the dwelling before going to a local motel.

Donations to assist the family can be made by contacting the Red Cross at 673-1460.