Just after 2 p.m., multiple callers to 911 were reporting a fire at an apartment complex in the 3200 block of SW 170th Avenue in Beaverton. Based on the description provided to dispatchers and confirmation by a MetroWest Ambulance crew, who could see a black column of smoke in the vicinity, the incident was immediately upgraded to a first alarm to bring in adequate resources to battle the fire. 

A Beaverton Police Department (BPD) officer and Washington County Sheriff’s Office (WCSO) lieutenant arrived first to the scene. The police officer provided a detailed size up of the fire to 911 dispatchers and both him and the WCSO lieutenant worked quickly to make sure everyone was evacuated from the involved and adjacent apartment units. 

Firefighters arrived minutes later to find active flames coming from a second story balcony, which spread to the living space of the apartment unit along with three other apartment units in the same building. Crews began aggressive fire attack measures, gaining control of the fire in just under 30 minutes. 

While thankfully no injuries were reported as a result of the fire, MetroWest Ambulance medics did evaluate and treat several people at the scene, who later declined transport.

A fire investigator determined the cause of the fire to be accidental and due to improper disposal of smoking materials. 

Four apartment units were damaged out of a 16-unit building. The four units have been deemed uninhabitable, which will displace approximately six people. Evaluations are currently being performed by the apartment complex’s property management to determine if the remaining 12 units are still habitable. Red Cross was dispatched to the scene and will be providing those displaced with assistance in temporary housing and other essential needs.

TVF&R was assisted on scene by Washington County Consolidated Communicatons Agency, Beaverton Police Department, Washington County Sheriff’s Office, MetroWest Ambulance, and Portland General Electric.