Fire in Calif. Elementary School Cancels Classes

Jan. 18, 2012
Classes are canceled Tuesday after an overnight fire caused an estimated $600,000 damage to the gymnasium, cafeteria and possibly the administration building of an elementary school in University Heights early Tuesday.

SAN DIEGO --

Classes are canceled Tuesday after an overnight fire caused an estimated $600,000 damage to the gymnasium, cafeteria and possibly the administration building of an elementary school in University Heights early Tuesday, authorities said.

The non-injury fire at Alice Birney Elementary School at 4345 Campus Ave. was reported about 11:45 p.m. Monday, according to a San Diego fire-rescue dispatcher.

About 50 firefighters responded to the incident, SD fire-rescue Battalion Chief John Fischer said, noting it took about 20 minutes to control the blaze.

The damage to the building is estimated at $500,000 and $100,000 for the contents.

Investigators on scene determined the fire was arson. A flammable liquid was found inside one of the buildings.

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