On March 4, 2018, around 7:30 a.m., Yavapai County Sheriff’s deputies eventually arrived on Conwaden Road in a remote section of Juniper Woods, AZ, based on reports of a possible structure fire and gunshots heard in the area. It was only by visible smoke that aided deputies in pinpointing the concerned property. Once on scene, deputies saw an SUV and single wide mobile home completely destroyed by fire and still smoldering – see photo. No one could be found on the property.
Deputies ultimately were able to contact the residents who confirmed they had been out of town since Friday. Based on interviews with the residents, the property owner, and neighbors, along with the initial on scene investigation, no evidence of foul play was identified. Ash Fork fire personnel arrived to make sure the fire was extinguished and did note the propane tank was hooked up to the home and turned on. The gunshot sounds may have been caused by exploding tires and/or ammunition stored in the home. It is possible the fire started several hours earlier during darkness and was not noticed until day break when gunshot sounds were heard and smoke was seen.
On March 4, 2018, at approximately 12:45 p.m., deputies were dispatched to the 22800 block of Adams Lane in Congress, AZ, regarding a shed fire. Upon arrival, deputies reported that fire crews knocked down fire but the roof had collapsed. The resident explained that he was using a scroll saw inside the shed when the pump on the engine caught fire. He did not have enough garden hose to reach the shed as the fire quickly spread to a wall. Congress fire personnel arrived and were able to contain the fire to the shed which was a total loss.
On March 4, 2018, at approximately 9:30 a.m., deputies arrived at a home in the 4800 block of Diamond Drive, Prescott, AZ, due to a structure fire call. The fire was located in the attic of the home and fire personnel indicated the cause was likely an electrical short. Fire personnel were removing insulation from the attic and had the fire under control. The home was unoccupied at the time. Initial indications are that wiring to a new swamp cooler may have been at fault.
The investigation is ongoing.