San Jose

Arson Suspected in Brush Fires in South San Jose

Combined blaze in area of Colleen Drive is 80% contained as of early Friday

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Arson is suspected in a series of brush fires that prompted evacuations in South San Jose Thursday evening.

Firefighters say there was six fire spots in all that have charred at least 90 acres within about a mile in the area of Colleen Drive in the city's Almaden Valley. The combined blaze was about 80% contained as of 7:15 a.m. Friday, Cal Fire said.

"It was coming down pretty far, we were getting a little nervous," said Jerry and Karin Furman, who live below the fire area.

Investigators believe the six brush fires were intentionally set in the Santa Teresa Hillside threatening homes and forcing evacuations in the Graystone neighborhood.

"People that go on a hill and say 'it’s a great idea to start a fire.' What’s going on these days?" said the Furmans. "Makes you really wonder.”

Evacuations were lifted around 9:30 p.m. as Cal Fire and San Jose firefighters were able to get the upper hand.

No homes were damaged and police say they have at least one person detained.

No additional details were immediately available.

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