Auburn’s last original Cal Ida lumber mill building went up in flames late Monday, as a late-night fire tore through the commercial structure that has long housed California Hardwood Producers’ sawmill and reclaimed-wood operation.
The blaze broke out at around 11:30 p.m. near Highway 49 and Hulbert Way. Firefighters from CAL FIRE and multiple local agencies raced to the scene, finding heavy smoke and fire pouring from the historic mill building. Crews knocked down the flames and kept the fire contained to the original structure, preventing it from spreading across the old mill site.
What Officials Reported
According to CAL FIRE NEU, CAL FIRE/Placer County Fire crews were backed up by the Newcastle Fire Department, Auburn City Fire Department, the Placer County Sheriff’s Office, the California Highway Patrol, and American Medical Response.
The Grass Valley Emergency Command Center began receiving multiple 911 calls at about 11:30 p.m. When units arrived, they found the old mill building already well involved, with heavy smoke and active fire. Crews focused on stopping the spread, and officials later confirmed the flames were held to the building of origin.
About The Property
The damaged structure stands on the historic Cal Ida lumber mill site, a longtime landmark in Auburn’s timber economy. California Hardwood Producers lists a Grass Valley Highway address for its sawmill and reclaimed-wood business and has operated at the location for years.
Investigation Underway
CAL FIRE prevention officers are leading the investigation into what sparked the blaze. In its update, the agency said investigators "have identified a person of interest" in the incident. No arrests or charges were announced, and officials have not released any additional identifying details.
Investigators asked the public to rely on official channels for further updates as they work to determine how the fire started.
Safety And Next Steps
There was no immediate word on injuries or a damage estimate in the early reports, and authorities did not list any evacuations in the initial posting. Fire crews stayed on scene into the morning to extinguish hot spots, secure the property, and assist investigators.
More information is expected as CAL FIRE and local agencies complete their work and release additional findings.
