Fire destroys downtown building

Fire destroyed a small rental home in downtown Sonora Friday.

The fire, at 113 North Shepherd Street, was reported at 5:57 p.m. and was visible from many downtown locations. 

Fulton was distraught about the fire, which leveled an unoccupied rental unit neighboring Fulton's main residence.

"It's been in his family 100 years," said the friend, who identified himself as Ray Marin.

The fire started near the front door of the 800-square-foot, metal roofed building and spread to the attic, Sonora City Fire Department officials said.

It was spotted and reported by Ed Hamson, who lives next door. He said he smelled smoke and thought it was a barbecue then quickly realized it was a fire.

He called the fire department and began fighting the blaze himself with his garden hose

Firefighters were still on scene as of 6:45 p.m.

Tuolumne County Fire, Cal Fire, Sonora City Fire, Coumbia Fire and Columbia College fire department responded.