Investigators Seek Information On 'Suspicious' Novato Fire

NOVATO, CA – Fire and police officials are seeking the public's help in identifying the person or people responsible for a "suspicious" vegetation fire that sparked Sunday on a hill near downtown Novato. The blaze broke out around 3 p.m. in the area of Seventh Street and Carmel Drive, burning about 3 acres and threatening nearby homes, according to Novato Fire Protection District.

Authorities closed several streets in the area and evacuated homes on Carmel Court. Novato firefighters tackled the flames along with state air crews, and the fire was declared under control in about an hour, fire officials said.

The Novato Fire Protection District and the Novato Police Department are still investigating this fire.

Officials said the fire was suspicious in nature. Investigators have ruled out all accidental causes.

Anyone with information about this incident is asked to call 415-899-7036 or email lhouser@novato.org.

Photo by Renee Schiavone/Patch