Investigation Ongoing in Suspicious Fair Oaks House Fire

A fire that on the 8900 block of Leatham Ave. is still being considered suspicious as investigators continue to collect data, said Sacramento Metro Fire spokesman, Scott Cockrum.

"At this point there was so much fire damage, it's difficult to detect the specific cause and origin," Cockrum said. "They (the investigators) did collect some samples in an effort to see if there are any flamable liquids or anything like that."

Ray Wentzel has owned the home for five years and was flipping channels on his TV when he saw his home engulfed in flames. He decided to wait till Monday to come assess the damage.

"I saw these (pointing to trees on his front lawn) and yelled, 'you better come see this,'" Wentzel said.

As surprise turned to reality, Wentzel couldn't bring himself to drive to the house.

"I was shocked, just sick," he said. "This happens to the other guy."

Cockrum said investigators had canvassed the area, talking with neighbors who had called in about the blaze (there were several).

"They've seen kids over there and the home's been abandoned for some time," Cockrum said. "So at this point, the fire is suspicious."

In the meantime, Wentzel says he'll be waiting for word from his insurance provider to see if he is covered. He has also hired a private investigator to look into the situation.

"The end of the world was supposed to happen Saturday, not Sunday," Wentzel said.

Any additional information pertaining to this fire that could be used in the investigation is welcome, Cockrum said. 

Those with information can call the front desk of Sac Metro Fire's administrative department at 916-859-4300 and an investigator will follow up. Anonymous tips can also be transcribed and delivered to investigators.

For all our latest fire coverage, please see our Fire Watch topic page at Fairoaks-Carmichael.patch.com/topics/Fire-Watch.