Overview
- The Gann Fire ignited Monday near Hogan Dam Road and Gann Road when sparks from equipment set dry brush alight, and it has burned roughly 10,300–10,400 acres while moving quickly through critically dry fuels.
- Cal Fire investigators arrested 65‑year‑old Herbert Wayne Smith on suspicion of recklessly causing the blaze after concluding the equipment he operated could produce sparks and was used without the required clearance or firefighting tools; court records show a prior 2018 fire‑related conviction.
- Crews found a body inside a burned home on Jaquima Drive in Angels Camp and officials are working to determine whether the death was caused by the fire as law enforcement continues evidence collection.
- State and federal resources have been mobilized, with thousands of personnel, aircraft, bulldozers and engines deployed, containment rising into the high‑30s to near 50 percent in recent updates, and Governor Newsom issuing a State of Emergency and securing FEMA assistance.
- Evacuations and animal shelters remain in place as damage assessments and recovery work continue, the Calaveras County district attorney is reviewing the investigation for possible charges, and officials are urging residents to document losses for recovery and insurance claims.