An aggressive attack by Twentynine Palms firefighters saved a house yesterday afternoon. According to Fire Chief Jim Thompson, Twentynine Palms firefighters, assisted by fire fighters from the Combat Center and Wonder Valley, were dispatched to a home in the 73000 block of Sun Valley Drive at 1:09 p.m. Upon arrival, they found flames extending into the eaves and roof of the house. The fire involved a wood fence, bales of straw, and numerous items stored in the yard. Firefighters were able to prevent the fire from spreading and from causing any major damage to the interior of the house. A young baby and his caregiver, two puppies and a turtle got out of the house safely before firefighters arrived. Damage to the home and contents was estimated at $20,000. Fire Chief Jim Thompson said first arriving fire units were hampered by numerous bystanders and vehicles driving to and parking near the fire scene. The Twentynine Palms Fire Department would like to remind citizens that it is a violation of both the penal code and the vehicle code to stop at or drive near an emergency scene.
