Add The California Post on Google A well-regarded dog breeder was killed in the Gann Fire when it ripped through her home after making a fatal decision, according to neighbors.
The victim, identified as Hinterland German Shepherds owner Susan Solari, told friends she could not leave as the flames approached because she refused to abandon her dogs. She had operated the breeding business for decades.
Joan Wilson, a neighbor and friend of Solari, told CBS LA that she confronted Solari as the fire approached their homes to urge her to leave.
“She was screaming and yelling, ‘No, I wasn’t going to evacuate,’ ” Wilson said. “There was fire all around.”
Wilson warned authorities that Solari would not leave without her dogs and remained at her property behind a locked gate.
“I told them she was there, that her dogs were there and she couldn’t get her dogs out,” Wilson said. “She wasn’t going to leave them.”
It’s unclear if officials showed up to urge her to leave. The law prevents officials from forcibly removing people who choose to stay during hurricanes and other natural disasters.
“I wish she would’ve listened to me. I wish I could’ve grabbed her. ‘Come on, you’re coming with me,’ ” Wilson said.
Solari raised and showed German Shepherds at her business for years. She loved the dogs, Wilson said, and was deeply committed to them.
“She was a great show dog lady. She was headstrong. She was a strong woman,” Wilson said.
Officials discovered Solari dead at 70 inside a residence in the 4600 block of Jaquima Drive near the city of Angels Camp.
The death was announced after a suspect was arrested for allegedly igniting the blaze, which has burned more than 10,300 acres in Northern California.
A Friday morning update on the fire said it was 40% contained.
“Fire activity remains minimal. Interior fuels may continue to smolder. Crews are continuing to strengthen containment lines and mop up. Uncrewed Aircraft Systems (UAS) are conducting infrared missions over the fire area to identify residual heat and help prioritize suppression and mop up efforts,” the update said.
“Hot and dry conditions remain. Please continue to use caution if entering in a previously evacuated area as crews will still be working,” it added.
Solari’s death would be the first linked to a California wildfire this year if authorities determined the blaze caused her death.
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