This afternoon at 2:28 pm firefighters received multiple calls to 9-1-1 reporting fire coming from an apartment in the 7800 block of SW 74th Ave.

On arrival, firefighters from nearby Station 53 found heavy smoke and flames coming from 2 units of an 8 unit apartment complex. Firefighters began an aggressive attack to prevent the flames from spreading to nearby sheds and adjoining units.

Simultaneously, crews worked on ensuring all adjoining units were evacuated and no occupants were trapped. Portland Fire & Rescue provided critical mutual aid in this fire by providing Two Engines and one Battalion Chief on initial dispatch. This allowed all firefighters to work quickly and aggressively to contain the fire damage to the two original fire units.

The fire took about 30 minutes to contain, but all occupants were safely evacuated and there were no firefighter injuries to report. Unfortunately, 2 dogs are reported missing and are feared to be in the fire units.

The construction of the building allowed smoke to damage the units which were untouched by fire. Further, electricity had to be cut to the entire building while the investigation is underway. This will require all occupants of this building to be displaced, possibly for an extended period of time. The Red Cross is assisting in providing shelter for up to eight adults displaced.

In addition to Portland Fire & Rescue, TVF&R was assisted on scene by Metro West Ambulance and Washington County Sherriff.

The investigation is ongoing and firefighters will be assisting investigators through the evening to attempt to determine a cause. As the investigation continues, more updates may be provided as additional information becomes available.

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