While another source[2] gives an estimate of more than 100 squads, each supervised by a foreman or "straw boss", of 50 to 80 men were at work in the park; 5,000 to 8,000 workers.

[2] Foremen with no knowledge of firefighting initially directed the effort, setting inappropriate back fires and sending hundreds of workers into a steep canyon.

[2] When the wind changed direction at about 3:00 p.m., the fire rushed up Dam Canyon, jumped a hastily constructed firebreak, and advanced on the workers, killing dozens and injuring more than 100.

[2][1] Because of the disorganized nature of the deployment and the often inaccurate recordkeeping of the work project, it took weeks to establish the exact death toll and identify the bodies.

[2] The courts ruled that victims were not eligible for civil compensation due to their unofficial employment by a 'straw boss' (Ca.