Fire Burns Near Murphys
San
Andreas – Firefighters continue to battle
the Penn Fire, burning near Pennsylvania Gulch and Skunk Ranch Road
just east of Murphy’s in Calaveras County, which is now reported
at 200 acres and 15% contained. Over 200 firefighters from
CAL FIRE and surrounding fire agencies are
currently fighting the fire. Firefighters will continue to work throughout
the night to contain the fire. The Penn Fire was reported at
3:24 p.m. this afternoon.
A CAL FIRE firefighter sustained a major
injury while engaged in firefighting operations off
Skunk Ranch
Road in the early hours of the fire.
The firefighter and a CAL FIRE engine were struck by a civilian
motorist on Skunk Ranch
Road. The civilian motorist declined
treatment at the scene. The CAL FIRE firefighter was transported by
helicopter to Memorial Medical Center in Modesto for treatment. He is currently
undergoing surgery for his injuries. The CAL FIRE engine sustained moderate damage.
An investigation into the accident and subsequent injury is being
conducted by the California Highway Patrol. CAL FIRE has activated a serious accident
review team as part of standard departmental procedures for injuries and vehicle
damage of this nature.