In a tragic incident early Wednesday morning, the historic Bidwell Mansion in Chico, California, was engulfed in flames, resulting in the complete destruction of the iconic structure. The fire broke out around 2:30 AM, and firefighters reported that the mansion was already fully involved when they arrived on the scene. The cause of the fire is still under investigation, and no injuries were reported. Fire Chief Steve Standridge stated, ‘With the fire’s intensity, we had to focus on preventing it from spreading to adjacent homes.’ The Bidwell Mansion, built in the late 1800s, was a significant historical site and a state park since 1905. The California State Parks confirmed the ‘complete loss’ of the mansion, adding that it served as a site of great importance for education and tourism. The community mourns the loss of a cherished landmark that represented both local history and cultural heritage. Governor Gavin Newsom expressed his condolences, emphasizing the historical value of the mansion to the community. ‘This is a devastating loss for the people of Chico and for all of California,’ he remarked. Local residents gathered outside the site, sharing memories of the mansion and expressing their shock over its destruction.
Historic Bidwell Mansion in California Destroyed by Early Morning Fire
