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Arson not ruled out in Mesa fire that destroyed mobile homes, cars

Posted at 8:19 PM, Jun 13, 2018
and last updated 2018-06-14 01:27:10-04

Deputies from the Maricopa County Sheriff's Office are looking into the possibility of arson after a fire destroyed two mobile homes, four cars, two RV's, and a trailer in Mesa on Wednesday afternoon. 

At least two families are out of their homes after the raging fire quickly spread through a mobile home community near Broadway and Crismon roads.

The flames and temperature outside were so intense that three firefighters were treated for heat-related issues, according to Rural Metro Fire spokesman Shawn Gilleland. 

Just after 2 p.m., authorities received a call of a mobile home fire. 

As firefighters got on the scene, they found a fully involved structure fire. 

"I had just finished my morning prayers with my grandson," said Christina Hundley. 

Hundley got a knock at the door, as firefighters told her to get out of the house. 

"I saw a big wall of fire to my right, and I felt the heat," Hundley said. 

The flames spread from a shed to a house, to Hundley's home, completely engulfing it. 

"I ran as fast as I could, with the dog and the boy," Hundley said. 

Crews were forced to battle the fire defensively. The materials used in mobile homes made it tricky to fight. 

"It really acts like an oven," Gilleland said. "The fire is being kept inside of there by the aluminum roofing and the aluminum siding. It's extremely hot. They burn extremely quickly."

Deputies say the fire appeared to be suspicious in nature and arson detectives responded to the scene. They are scheduled to return Thursday to determine the cause which is still unknown at this time. 

"Luckily, we got out on time, and I'm very grateful for that," Hundley said. "I'm going to say my prayers. Everything happens for a reason."

No additional injuries were reported.