Caged Dog Dies In Fire Near California Citrus State Historic Park

RIVERSIDE, CA — A fire that broke out Monday behind a Riverside home adjacent to California Citrus State Historic Park destroyed two outbuildings and killed a dog that had been left in a cage.

The blaze was reported about 7:30 a.m. in the 1500 block of Irving Street, near Jackson Street, which serves as an entranceway to the park, according to the Riverside Fire Department.

Battalion Chief Bruce Vanderhorst said three engine crews and a truck company -- numbering 17 personnel — were sent to the location and encountered flames raging in two small outbuildings to the rear of the main residence.

The fire was fully contained in less than an hour, with both outbuildings consumed. There was no damage to park property.

"A family pet was found deceased in the fire in a dog kennel cage," Vanderhorst said.

He said an investigation revealed the outbuildings were being used as part of a "party rental supply business."

The property losses totaled $50,000, according to the battalion chief.

The Riverside County Department of Animal Services was summoned to examine the circumstances behind the loss of the canine and remove it from the premises.

The cause of the fire appeared suspicious, and arson investigators were requested. However, the exact source of the blaze could not immediately be determined, Vanderhorst said.