Cal-Fire investigators say that a mechanical failure on a vehicle sparked the Carr Fire that is burning near French Gulch. The fire started early Monday afternoon and quickly grew out of control. As of Wednesday morning crews were reporting the fire has burned 4500 acres and is 24% contained. In many area of the fire, bulldozers are being used to create containment lines at the ridgetops due to steep terrain and limited access for fire apparatus. The community of French Gulch remains under evacuation orders and residents along Highway 299 east of Trinity Mountain Road to the base of Buckhorn Summit are also under evac orders. Residents along Whiskey Creek Road including the boat launch are also evacuated.Highway 299 remains closed in both directions. The highway is closed at Buckhorn Summit to the Whiskeytown Visitors Center on JFK Drive. The CHP says the highway will remain closed until it is safe for the public as well as fire crews. PG&E crews were allowed access to the fire zone Tuesday to assess damage to utility poles. PG&E says that more than 40 poles need to be replaced and crews are trying to get the power restored by late Wednesday. Some of the poles will be carried by helicopter to some of the remote areas.Over 1000 total personnel are working the fire. Cal-Fire has not released any information on damage to structures.