Attempt to eradicate bees determined to be cause of house fire in Fallbrook

Authorities have said the cause of a blaze in the attic of a Fallbrook home in the 2800 block of Forbell Place today was due to an attempt by the residents of the home to eradicate a bee hive.

"The two people that reside in the home had lit citronella candles in an attempt to eradicate a bee hive at the house and that is what caused the attic of the home to catch on fire," said John Buchanan, public information officer for North County Fire.

The residents were not home when the fire started shortly after 2 p.m. today. The attic area of the two-story, approximately 2,200 square foot home became involved in flames causing a two-alarm fire.

"In addition to North County Fire, we had assistance from Camp Pendleton, Vista, and Oceanside," said Buchanan. No injuries were sustained in fighting the blaze.

Buchanan said damage to the home has been estimated at approximately $70,000.

The residents have been displaced until repairs can be made to the structure.

"The fire department would like to advise people not to try and eradicate bees themselves, but instead to call a professional to assist," said Buchanan.

(previous story, Thurs., March 8, 2012, 4:03 p.m.)

Fire erupts in attic of Fallbrook home

Debbie Ramsey

Managing Editor

A fire erupted in the attic area of a home located in the 2800 block of Forbell Place this afternoon (Thurs., Mar. 8) shortly after 2 p.m.

Both North County and Camp Pendleton Fire responded to the blaze.

"Firefighters were able to keep the fire contained to the attic area and no one was at home in the residence at the time the fire broke out," said John Buchanan, public information officer for North County Fire.

The home, a two-story single-family residence, is estimated to be approximately 2,200 square feet.

No injuries were sustained as a result of this fire, officials said.

An investigation into the cause of the blaze is underway.