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Arson caused
Northeast Park fires

Over the past week, firefighters and fire investigators contended with three fires in unoccupied structures near the intersection of NW Saltzman and Laidlaw roads. Tualatin Hills Park and Recreation District (THPRD) owns the structures and property, where a future park is planned. All three fires were quickly extinguished and contained to the structures, which were demolished today. Fortunately no firefighters were injured during fire suppression activities.

Based on burn patterns and material evidence, fire investigators have confirmed all three fires were intentionally set. Washington Country Sheriff's Arson Detectives are assisting with the continuing investigation and conducting witness interviews and collecting evidence. Sheriff's Deputies have also increased patrols in the area and THPRD's Security Officers are making frequent site visits.

The house and outbuildings that burned were located in the THPRD property shown here.

THPRD acquired the property where the buildings were located in 2001. Renters had occupied the home until about a year ago, says Bob Wayt, THPRD Communications Director. The District has no immediate plans to develop the property into a park, because funds aren’t available. As Bonny  Slope West develops nearby, planning may accelerate.

The first fire was reported on April 22, just before 9 pm. Firefighters located an abandoned structure ablaze on a low marshy area of the property, and stretched 500' of hose to defensively extinguish the fire. The fire burned through the roof, which later collapsed.

The second fire came in just after 9 pm on April 23, and was reported by a THPRD security guard. The third fire began just before 7 pm on April 29. Firefighters arrived to find a house with substantial flames and smoke showing. Firefighters contained the fire to prevent it spreading to the adjacent wooded area.

THPRD demolished the remains of the house and outbuildings on May 1. Wayt notes that, “expedited permits required to move forward with the project were obtained from Clean Water Services and Washington County.”

Neighbors and community members are encouraged to report any information related to recent fires, unusual activities or suspicious people near the property, by calling 503-846-2700.

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