Fire Department Press Release – 103 Grande Paseo, Marinwood 01-09-26

San Rafael - Marinwood Fire Department - PRESS RELEASE

Abraham Roman, Fire Chief

•Incident Commander: Anthony Alviso, Battalion Chief.
•Date of Incident: January 9, 2026.
•Location of Incident: 103 Grande Paseo, Marinwood, CA.
•Time of Dispatch: 12:48 p.m.
•Type of Incident: Structure fire.
•Occupancy Type: Two story townhouse dwelling.
•Fire Cause: Undetermined. Under investigation.
•Damage Estimate: Not determined at this time.
•Injuries: None

A fire that originated on a second-floor patio above a garage caused significant damage to a portion of a townhouse before firefighters were able to bring it under control.

Motorists passing through the area noticed smoke coming from a townhouse complex off Marinwood Avenue and immediately called 911. A nearby plumbing company crew also observed the fire and knocked on the door to alert the occupants, who were unaware a fire had started. Two residents and their pet dog were able to safely evacuate the home. One of the residents, along with members of the plumbing crew, attempted to extinguish the fire prior to the arrival of fire crews.

The fire began on the patio against an exterior wall and extended into the wall cavity and roof of the dwelling. Firefighters encountered challenges due to the fire spreading through concealed spaces within the wall and roof assembly. The fire was brought under control within approximately 30 minutes.

The affected unit is currently considered uninhabitable. In addition to damage to an upper-story wall and a portion of the roof, the interior of the home sustained water and smoke damage. An adjoining townhouse experienced minor damage; however, residents were able to return to that unit.

Four engines, one ladder truck, one rescue ambulance, one fire investigator, and three chief officers responded. PG&E and deputies from the Marin County Sheriff's Department also responded.

This incident highlights the importance of always calling 911 when you see an emergency and not assuming someone else has already done so. In this case, the quick actions of passing motorists and nearby workers helped prevent injuries and limited the damage to a single townhouse unit.

Contact: Deputy Fire Chief Robert Sinnott [email protected] 415-485-5067 office 415-261-7333 cell

Press Release - 103 Grande Paseo, Marinwood Press Release