ANGWIN, Calif. -- A homeowner using a propane torch to remove weeds on the side of his wood, 1,200-square-foot Angwin home is suspected of accidentally starting a fire that caused $250,000 in damage Monday morning, Cal Fire Battalion Chief Pete Munoa said.

Neighbors saw the man using the propane torch to remove weeds earlier in the morning, Munoa said. The fire at 471 Newton Way was reported at 10:20 a.m.

The fire started on the outside of the garage and destroyed a Volvo inside, Munoa said. The house sustained major damage.

Two neighboring residences and a vehicle parked outside the garage sustained minor damage from radiant heat, Munoa said.

The man, his wife and disabled adult son were able to escape, Munoa said. The man carried his son outside to the lawn and neighbors moved him farther away from the burning house, Munoa said.

Firefighters from Cal Fire, Napa County Fire Department, Angwin, Deer Park, Calistoga and Pope Valley contained the fire at 10:55 a.m., Munoa said.

A rabbit, cocker spaniel and Persian cat perished in the fire, Munoa said. The man was taken to the hospital for treatment of smoke inhalation.