San Diego

Homes Threatened by Serra Mesa Fire

A canyon fire that came dangerously close to homes near Geraldine Avenue and Kobe Drive in Serra Mesa Saturday was intentionally set, according to San Diego fire officials. 

Neighbors reported seeing palm trees go up in flames around 3:30 p.m.

San Diego Fire Rescue arrived on the scene within seven minutes with 80 personnel and two helicopters.  

Crews made five helicopter drops over the thick brush, which was easy fuel for the fire. 

Canyon Fire Threatens Homes in Serra Mesa

Firefighters got control of the blaze in about 30 minutes, stopping the spread and saving dozens of homes. 

Kyle Kenehan, who lives near where the fire started, is grateful his home was spared. 

"I think I'm very thankful to have them here because if they hadn’t been here or they showed up maybe 30 minutes later all this could be burnt to ash."

Joe Neff was one of several neighbors using a garden hose to keep the flames away from his house. 

"It's crazy, you come in and see the smoke is right opposite your house and the fire trucks are blocking access to your neighborhood," Neff tells NBC 7. "I'm glad it's over."

There were no reported injuries or damage. Officials are investigating the cause of the fire. 

The fire burned about an acre before fire crews got a handle on it. 

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