On Saturday, Oct. 6, at approximately 4:00 a.m., Rural Metro Fire Department crews from Cave Creek and Carefree responded to a working structure fire at 38020 N. Vermeersch Rd in Cave Creek. On arrival, crews encountered a single level residential home, fully involved with smoke and fire. Crews determined the home was not occupied and assumed a defensive fire attack. Rural Metro Fire Crews worked for several hours to stop the fire, which worked through the entire home. During the fire fight, a Captain sustained minor injuries when he fell approximately 6 feet, landing on his air pack, from the eroded creek bank behind the house. He was transported to the hospital for evaluation and released the same day.
According to county records, the property belongs to Collin Thorstenson, who is believed to be the owner of Hogs and Heifers. Some initial reports indicate that the tenents of the residence had recently moved out. At this time, the origin of the fire is unknown. Maricopa County Sheriffs will be tasked with further investigation, if they choose. The residence appears to be a complete loss – no other structures were damaged.
