A campfire fanned by the Santa Ana winds caused a 1,700 acre brush fire that forced the evacuation of thousands of residents in the foothills near Los Angeles.

Three men were being held by Los Angeles County deputies under suspicion of starting the blaze.

At least five homes were completely destroyed and another 17 damaged by the blaze.  A historic retreat that was once the home of the Singer sewing machine family had rental homes burned to the ground although statues of Jesus and the Virgin Mary were completely unharmed.

Authorities said the wind faded during the day allowing them to bring the fire under control.

According to Glendora Fire Chief Tim Staab the men in custody were trying to keep a campfire going to stay warm.