Firefighters from San Juan Bautista, Seaside and North Monterey
County are still searching for the cause of the Nov. 26 fire in a
San Juan Bautista apartment structure.
Firefighters from San Juan Bautista, Seaside and North Monterey County are still searching for the cause of the Nov. 26 fire in a San Juan Bautista apartment structure.
Investigators continue to wait for more information and to interview more witnesses in regards to the fire, said Doug McCoun, division chief of prevention and investigation at the North Monterey County Fire Department.
“The investigation is not done,” he said.
The fire burned through three apartments in a 10-unit structure, killing a 69-year-old woman and sending a 70-year-old to the hospital with third-degree burns to his hands and face. The damage from the complex caused the building to be unlivable. Eight of the structure’s 10 unites were occupied at the time of the fire.
Overall, the fire displaced seven families and 40 individuals from their homes.
To help five of the families that are seeking help, Paine’s Restaurant in downtown Hollister is hosting a barbeque benefit at noon Saturday. Paine’s will be accepting donations such as $10 in cash, new toys and new clothing.
Owner Lorraine Garcia wanted to help after seeing pictures of charred toys from the complex, she said.
“I felt bad for the kids because it was so close to Christmas,” she said.
Working with the local chapter of the American Red Cross, Garcia was able to schedule and plan the benefit. Friends donated all of the food, she said.
“We did this because we knew people would step up to the plate and help,” she said.
Food will include beans, chicken and ribs, Garcia said. And those who don’t make it to the barbeque can donate items throughout the weekend until the Red Cross picks up donations Monday.
Those wishing to donate clothing or toys for the kids can contact Garcia or go to Paine’s to find the ages of the kids, Garcia said.
