Santa Maria police have determined that a burn victim was working on a stolen car Tuesday evening when he accidentally started a house fire. [KSBY]
Fire investigators say the burn victim, a 29-year-old man, was smoking at the time, and his lit cigarette caused the fire.
Officials have not yet released the name of the victim, who is currently in a Southern California burn treatment facility. Despite suffering the burns, he may face criminal charges.
Police officers found the vehicle identification number of the car that was also burned in the fire and discovered that the vehicle was reported stolen. Officers said an investigation into the incident is ongoing.
Fire officials say the blaze caused approximately $270,000 worth of damage. The fire destroyed the garage and damaged parts of the house.
