Arson investigators seek witnesses to two fires in T.O
By Nancy Needham nancy@theacorn.com

Two suspicious fires broke out in Thousand Oaks on Monday night, and the Ventura County Fire Department needs help finding those responsible.

The first fire was called in at 6:14 p.m. Firefighters were on the scene within five minutes and put out what was described in a fire department report as a small tree fire near Erbes Road and Avenida de Los Arboles.

At around 10 p.m. another fire broke out not far away in a field at 1931 Erbes Road. Firefighters arrived three minutes after the first 911 phone call was received and quickly put out what was said to be a small patch fire.

"If anyone saw someone throwing something out of a car, loitering or lighting something in these areas, we need them to call investigators," said Bill Nash, fire department spokesperson.

The department received multiple calls on the two fires from citizens who saw the blazes on the dark, cool night, Nash said. In fact, the department report pointed out that citizens were working to put the first small tree fire out when firefighters arrived.

"It's not unusual for good people to do good things while we're en route," Nash said.

He cautioned that the fire department doesn't want citizens to put themselves in harm's way, but he said the department appreciates the help.

"Sometimes people use a shovel, a rake, a garden hose or a fire extinguisher, and it helps," Nash said.

People are especially aware of the urgency of putting out a fire quickly after the recent fires in Southern California, he said.

"It's very unusual to have two fires like this," Nash said.

There are no witnesses or suspects at this time, but he's hoping someone saw something and will report it, he said.

"There were many people driving down the street and nearby the areas at the time the fires began. We're hoping someone saw something," Nash said.

To report suspicious activities, call fire investigators at (805) 388-4259.