CHICO, Calif. - Chico firefighters had five engines out putting out a vegetation fire Sunday morning in an area near a homeless camp off of Notre Dame near Meriam Park and Murphy Commons. The fire started at approximately 9:10 a.m. and was being mopped up a few hours later, said Chico Fire Department Battalion Chief John Kelso.

The fire was first reported by someone who was walking a dog on the bike path near Meriam Park. The person saw fire creeping along in an area near the path, said Chief Kelso.

The winds were blowing at 12 mph, Kelso said. He described spotting several hundred feet ahead of the fire.

Six engines were quickly assigned to the fire, and their firefighters were able to put it out quickly after they arrived on the scene.

"Fuels are dry," said Chief Kelso. "There is still a fire threat, even though it's fall," he continued.

Several neighbors witnessed the fire and provided statements to Chico police, said Kelso, who said there is an ongoing investigation. He said there is no definitive cause at this time.

Photograph provided by Kathi Leggett