A fire described as of “suspicious” origin burned about 20 acres near the 2000 block of Lake Herman Road on Wednesday evening, Benicia Fire Division Chief Joshua Chadwick said Thursday.

The department first was notified of the fire abut 6:38 p.m. Wednesday, he said, and those first on the scene saw it burning about 20 yards south of Lake Herman Road.

Wind was driving the fire to burn dry vegetation east toward Reservoir Road, Chadwick said.

“Due to the wind, light, flashy fuels and dry conditions, a second alarm was requested,” he said.

The fire didn’t threaten any buildings, but was coming close to crossing Lake Herman Road into an area that is state responsibility, Chadwick said.

Mutual aid assistance came from Vallejo, Cordelia and Valero Benicia Refinery fire departments, he said.

Chadwick said the fire was brought under control in about an hour after it had scorched 20 acres.

“The cause of the fire is currently under investigation but (is) suspicious in nature,” Chadwick said.

Sharing is caring!