During a late-night blaze in Auburn, the historic Cal Ida Lumber Mill saw its last standing original building consumed by fire. Responding to multiple 911 calls around 11:30 p.m., firefighters arrived at the intersection of Highway 49 and Hulbert Way to grapple with heavy smoke and fierce flames. As per CBS Sacramento, crews from the broader region—including Cal Fire, Auburn City Fire, and Newcastle Fire—quickly contained the fire to the single structure, though it was deemed a total loss.
The investigation has to still formally conclude, but Cal Fire has pinpointed a person of interest in connection with the Auburn lumber mill fire, although details about this individual's identity or suspected involvement remain under wraps. According to a report by ABC10, CAL FIRE Prevention Officers are now leading the probe to uncover the cause behind the destruction of this once pivotal community landmark.
Emblematic of Auburn's industrial heritage, the Cal-Ida Lumber Mill was once among the county's largest mills and a significant local employer, boasting a daily workforce of over 800 people at its peak. Before the fire, California Hardwood Producers most recently had occupied the historic site; however, this business shuttered in 2023, as noted by CBS Sacramento. This devastating event marks the end of a tangible piece of the city's history.
The coordinated response to the Auburn fire involved multiple agencies, including CAL FIRE/Placer County Fire Department, Auburn City Fire Department, Newcastle Fire Department, Placer County Sheriff’s Office, California Highway Patrol, and American Medical Response. Crews successfully prevented the flames from spreading beyond the historic Cal-Ida Lumber Mill, though the loss of the structure remains a significant blow to the community’s heritage. “Crews were able to contain the flames to just that building,” according to a CBS Sacramento report. No injuries were reported in connection with the incident.
