The State - News from Feb. 28, 1989

Fire officials said they do not suspect arson in a blaze that destroyed a house on a Stanford University ranch embroiled in a labor dispute with migrant workers. The fire caused at least $110,000 damage to a single-story home at Webb Ranch when its residents, Gary Webb and his family, were away. No one was injured. The ranch is operated by Gary’s father, Stanley Webb, on land owned by the university. California Department of Forestry fire investigator Mike Martin said nothing indicates arson, “but I’m not ruling it out because of all the attention the media has given the ranch lately.” Workers at the ranch have sued the Webbs and the university, charging that they have been intimidated and threatened with loss of jobs. A hearing is set for March 20.