Fire Destroys San Marcos Apartment Complex

Blaze leaves 11 people without homes, but no injuries reported

Published on Feb. 3, 2026

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A three-alarm fire ripped through a San Marcos apartment complex on Monday, destroying at least four units and leaving 11 people without a place to live. The fire, which may have been fueled by propane tanks in the backyard, caused significant damage but resulted in no injuries, according to fire officials.

Why it matters

Apartment fires can be devastating, leaving families displaced and with the loss of personal belongings. This incident highlights the importance of fire safety and prevention measures in multi-unit residential buildings, as well as the need for support systems to help affected residents get back on their feet.

The details

The fire started around 1:20 pm in the backyard of the Cactus Garden Apartments and quickly spread, destroying at least four units. Firefighters went into a defensive strategy to protect the surrounding apartments. One resident, Aaron Hernandez, lost his Legos and guitars in the blaze, but firefighters were able to salvage one of his guitars. Investigators believe the fire may have been fueled by propane tanks in the backyard.

  • The fire started around 1:20 pm on Monday, February 3, 2026.

The players

Tanya Lezama

A resident whose apartment was destroyed in the fire, leaving her and her son Luis without a home.

Luis Lezama

The son of Tanya Lezama, who lost his childhood home in the apartment complex fire.

Aaron Hernandez

A resident whose apartment was damaged in the fire, but whose mother made it out safely and whose brother was able to save their dog.

Jason Nailon

The Division Chief Fire Marshal, who said the fire may have been fueled by propane tanks in the backyard.

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What they’re saying

“This is a huge part of my childhood. As I was walking by, I said it smelled like memories.”

— Luis Lezama (nbcsandiego.com)

“I feel very, very sad because everything is gone. Nobody died. That is the important thing.”

— Tanya Lezama (nbcsandiego.com)

“There were some propane tanks back there, so I imagine that's what it was.”

— Jason Nailon, Division Chief Fire Marshal (nbcsandiego.com)

“They definitely help me a lot with depression, and it's sad to see them go, but I've learned going through a hard time recently that sometimes letting go is really important.”

— Aaron Hernandez (nbcsandiego.com)

What’s next

Investigators are still working to determine the exact cause of the fire, which remains under investigation.

The takeaway

This tragic apartment fire serves as a sobering reminder of the importance of fire safety and preparedness in multi-unit residential buildings. While no lives were lost, the emotional and material toll on displaced families underscores the need for community support and resources to help them recover and rebuild.