July 4 PH house fire likely caused by bad lithium battery

A malfunctioning lithiumion battery may be the cause of a fire that destroyed the garage of a Pleasant Hill home late in the evening on July 4.

According to Contra Costa Fire, occupants of the home at 1588 Fieldcrest Dr. heard a large boom and proceeded downstairs to find fire and smoke coming from the garage. The roof later collapsed, leaving the garage destroyed.

“Occupants reported a malfunctioning battery in the garage as well as an electric bike charging,” department investigators reported.

The fire broke out about 11:25 p.m., well after officially sanctioned Fourth of July firework shows in surrounding communities had concluded for the evening – leaving only the sound of sporadic illegal fireworks.

It was then that the silence in the Ridgeview and surrounding neighborhoods of Pleasant Hill was suddenly shattered, leading many residents to think the large explosion was due to an illegal firework misfiring.

As of July 10, the official cause of the fire remained undetermined. However, fire officials noted no fireworks or other flammables were identified as contributing to the extensive damage to the garage and adja- cent section of the home. An insurance company will be involved in determining an official cause. A forensic lab also is expected to conduct tests. If it is confirmed that the cause is related to a malfunctioning battery, the manufacturer will be put on notice.

The Pleasant Hill fire is the latest in a spate of lithium-ion incidents that Con Fire has

City maintenance worker enjoys helping the community

As part of the city’s maintenance and facility team, Zac Richardson has a strong dedication to his work and community. You may see Richardson throughout the community tackling irrigation issues and mainline breaks. As one of only five members of the maintenance team handling all the work throughout the city, he believes in always learning new pieces of his trade.

Richardson was born and raised in Clayton, graduating from Clayton Valley High School. His parents still live in Clayton, and he appreciates having his family close.

He and his wife, Tatiana, share a beautiful dog named Kira. They enjoy playing soccer together on an adult league team. He also likes going to the gym and staying in shape. The couple is excited to travel to Europe to explore – and catch a few soccer games.