Cathleen Allison/Nevada Appeal
Five summers ago in the scorching heat of a typical Nevada July, an unattended campfire sprung to life in the hills of Kings Canyon in West Carson City.
In the homes below, no one suspected what was to come, but less than 12 hours later a perfect storm of drought, thick brush and high winds turned that forgotten campfire into an inferno that raced down the mountain and sent hundreds of residents fleeing.
The ensuing week was one of contrasts set against a backdrop of charred hills: Heartbreak from 18 homes lost, heroism from the rescuers, survivors and the community.