Firefighters responded to a second-alarm fire at the Sunflower Apartments located in the 11000 block of SW 135th Avenue in Tigard just before 5:30 a.m. today. Multiple callers to 911 reported sounds of explosions and witnessed fire outside a corner unit. First-arriving firefighters found heavy flames fed by propane coming from the eves and side of the two-story building. They immediately began to fight the fire, while additional crews searched other units in the building to ensure all residents had safely evacuated.
The fire was controlled within 23 minutes. Approximately 44 firefighters worked to fight the fire, conduct searches, salvage belongings, overhaul the building and decontaminate tools. Three people were treated by firefighters and paramedics from Metro West Ambulance at the scene for minor symptoms of smoke inhalation. Otherwise, there were no injuries. Three apartments sustained significant damage from fire, smoke and water. The six occupants of those units will be permanently displaced, and approximately 24 people residing in the building where the fire occurred will not be able to return to their homes today due to safety concerns. Apartment property managers and the American Red Cross will be assisting residents with temporary lodging.
A TVF&R fire investigator determined the cause of the accidental fire to be an unattended propane heater stored on an outdoor patio of a first-story unit.
Link to video from fire scene: https://www.dropbox.com/s/9qo45ija4ueul3c/IMG_3777.MOV?dl=0