Fire Department Press Release – 141 San Marino Dr 07-26-2026

San Rafael Fire Department - PRESS RELEASE

Abraham Roman, Fire Chief

Firefighters Confine Garage Fire, Prevent Spread to Home

• Incident Commander: Paul Bernard, Battalion Chief.
• Date of Incident: July 26, 2026. Time of Dispatch: 4:38 p.m
• Location of Incident: 141 San Marino Dr, San Rafael, CA.
• Type of Incident: Structure fire.
• Occupancy Type: Two-story single-family dwelling.
• Damage Estimate: Not determined at this time.
• Resources Assigned: 3 chief officers, 4 engines, 1 ladder truck, 1 paramedic ambulance, San Rafael Police, & PG&E.

Firefighters responded to a reported residential structure fire and arrived to find a vehicle fully involved in flames inside the attached garage. The fire had extended to contents stored in the garage and portions of the home's structure.
Upon arrival, firefighters confirmed that the home's two occupants had safely evacuated and were not injured. Crews immediately initiated an aggressive fire attack with the primary objective of confining the fire to the garage and preventing it from spreading into the living areas of the home.

The fire was brought under control in approximately 15 minutes. Thanks to the quick actions of firefighters, damage to the living areas was limited to minor smoke infiltration.
The vehicle, a collector car, was destroyed by the fire, along with most of the contents stored in the garage. The garage also sustained moderate structural damage.
The cause of the fire is under investigation; however, preliminary findings indicate the fire originated from a mechanical malfunction while the vehicle was running.
Fire Safety Fact

Did you know that an attached garage is designed to help prevent a fire from spreading into the living areas of a home? This protection is provided by a fire-resistance-rated separation between the garage and the house, including fire-rated gypsum wallboard and a solid, self-closing door between the garage and the interior of the home.

To remain effective, this protective barrier must be maintained. Unsealed holes or penetrations in the walls or ceiling, damaged drywall, or a door that no longer self-closes can compromise this important fire safety feature. Periodically inspecting and maintaining these components can help slow the spread of fire and smoke, providing valuable time for occupants to escape and for firefighters to respond.

PIO Contact:

Robert Sinnott, Deputy Fire Chief-Deputy Fire Marshal

415-485-5067 (desk)

[email protected]

Fire Department Press Release - 141 San Marino Dr 07-26-26