Homeowner: Ex-boyfriend doused her house in gasoline, set on fire

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San Jose fire crews opened an arson investigation for an early Monday morning house fire and the homeowner told KTVU that her ex-boyfriend broke into her home and doused it in gasoline before setting it on fire. 

Firefighters are calling the 1 a.m. fire at Hamilton Park Drive suspicious and are investigating whether it was intentionally set. The homeowner, who did not give her name, said her ex slipped into her home from the backsliding door. She ran outside with her dogs. That's when her ex set her house on fire, she said.

She also said her ex has a history of alcoholism and mental health issues. And she hadn't seen him for more than a month when he showed up Monday morning.

Police and firefighters have not responded specifically to her allegations, but they did open an arson investigation and are looking for the suspect. 

Firefighters found heavy smoke and flames coming out of the front of the house. Neighbors were evacuated as a precaution.  

Firefighters had the fire under control in 15 minutes but the house has extensive damage, according to Battalion Chief Darren Wallace.