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Fast-Moving Delta Fire Leaves Devastation For Brannan Island Residents

By Kelly Ryan

ISLETON (CBS13) — Residents returned home on Friday after a grass fire spread to their mobile home park, destroying at least a half-dozen homes.

Homeowners are picking up the pieces, but they're still rattled by how the flames spread quickly across the island.

"Last night was like a war zone propane tanks going off, ammunition," said Steve Joseway.

Neighbors relayed to neighbors where the fire was heading as it ripped through dry brush, aided by high winds.

"Didn't have time to think," he said. "It was three houses away, then two houses; it was too fast," he said.

His home still stands on Friday, but his neighbors' homes are ash and soot.

It was an emotional morning for Mel Gann. Officials say the fire broke out on Thursday, starting as a grass fire, but, fueled by winds and dry vegetation, raced toward homes.

Arson has been ruled out as a cause, but investigators are still trying to figure out how the fire started.

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