Mendocino County fire: homes threatened, possibly arson

MENDOCINO COUNTY, Calif. (KGO) -- Wildfires burning across California have forced hundreds of people from their homes. The severe drought we're experiencing is turning the state into a tinderbox.

"Nothing surprised me. It is exactly what we have expected for the entire season," says Cal Fire battalion chief Mark Steward.

The latest, in Mendocino County, has been threatening homes since Saturday. The flames were taller than trees and moved so fast that many residents feel fortunate to have escaped with their lives.

"It moves so fast. We had half an hour and then it was on top of us immediately," said Scott Grey, a friend of one of the fire victims.

On a ridge, two abandoned fire engines and a utility vehicle - even fire crews have had to evacuate certain areas.

Eric Collin returned on Monday hoping to see the remains of his home, but Cal Fire kept him away while they looked for clues about the cause. "I have not been up there. I am pretty sure it is burned down to the foundation," said Collin.

Investigators say the fire is being investigated as a crime; they are not ruling out arson.

By Monday afternoon, the flames and smoke has mostly disappeared, but Cal Fire remains watchful. They won't take anything for granted this dry season.