MERIDIAN -- Fire crews extinguished a grass fire that burned close to several Meridian homes this morning.

Police are calling this arson and focusing their investigation on two juveniles seen riding bikes near where the fire broke out. So far, no one has been charged.

KTVB viewer photo

Flames spread quickly is a Meridian field, fueled by 25 mph winds.

The fire initially broke out around 11 a.m. at a home under construction at 4193 N. Portage Avenue in Meridian -- that's not far from the intersection of Meridian and McMillan roads.

Crews arrived at the Cedar Springs subdivision and were able to knock down the fire which sent thick, black smoke into the skies above. However, embers from the fire spread to a nearby 40-acre field and threatened three homes.

LaWanna Niemann was inside her home went a passerby rang the door bell to tell her that a 20-foot tall pine tree and some shrubs adjacent to her house were on fire. She left quickly and is OK. She was thankful to that Good Samaritan.

Firefighters set up a perimeter around Niemann's house and two others and were able to save them. Winds gusts were around 25 mph, making firefighting more difficult.

Some homes near Meridian Road were evacuated as a precaution, according to a Meridian Police officer.

There were no injuries to report and property damage was minimal other than the initial home that was on fire. Fire officials say about 15 acres were blackened.

Meridian Fire Capt. Bill Allen says crews were called in from Eagle, Boise and Star to help with structure protection.

Crews remained on the scene for several hours afterward to mop up hot spots.