Residents react to Martinez Lake fire

Neighbors said they are shocked by the sight of debris and rubble after a fire in Martinez Lake damaged 15 structures Monday night.

According to residents, several families lost everything they owned when the fire broke out Monday.

Family and friends were trying to pick up the pieces of the devastation the fire left Tuesday morning.

Carol Welch, a Martinez Lake resident said she’s been living in the area for 10 years.

“It’s just devastating, you know?” Welch said. “I just can’t believe it happened, you never think of stuff like that.

Welch said several of her neighbors were affected by the fire. On Tuesday, Welch said she hopes others can lend a helping hand out to the community.

“Thank God that everybody got out,” Welch said. “A lot of material was lost but at least everyone got out. That’s what’s most important.