House Fire in Jefferson Displaces Residents

Damage to the home is estimated at over $20,000.

All photos courtesy: Jefferson Fire

(JEFFERSON) - Jefferson Fire units responded to a house fire Monday morning at 11:30 at 364 Marion Street. They say the resident was wise to get out after the fire was initially spotted.

51-year-old Melana Mendez, was in another room of the house when she heard popping and crackling.

She says she began smelling smoke and when she reached the kitchen, she saw flames going up her kitchen cabinets and wall near the stove.

"Mrs. Mendez did the right thing and immediately evacuated the home and called 911 from a phone next door", said Chief Bemrose of the Jefferson Fire District.

She was home alone at the time.

Denver Larson who also resides at the residence was at work at the time of the fire.

The home did have working smoke alarms.

The fire was quickly under control and fire damage was limited to the kitchen area.

However, the entire house suffered smoke damage.

Firefighters used a thermal imaging camera to check for additional hot spots in the dwelling.

An electrical fire involving the stove was determined as the cause.

Andrew Braveo, owner of the home, indicated the residence was insured.

Damage is estimated at over $20,000.

There were no injuries reported.

The Jefferson Volunteer Firefighter's Association made a donation to the family from their Burn-out fund.

The Willamette Chapter of the American Red Cross will also be assisting the family.