House Fire in Jefferson Displaces Family

The Willamette Chapter of the American Red Cross is assisting the family.

Fire scene in Jefferson

(JEFFERSON) - Firefighters from Jefferson were called to a house fire at 1058 Talbot Rd. SE in Jefferson just after noon Thursday. Chief Don Bemrose with Jefferson Fire says nobody was home at the time of the fire which has been blamed on a propane heater too close to a wall, "the quick response of the firefighters limited the damage to the home". The home did have working smoke alarms.

31-year old Nate Axmaker, resident of the home, indicated that he left a propane heater on to dry out a bathroom that was undergoing a remodel due to water damage from damaged pipes.

The 3200 sq. ft. home was once two structures that was remodeled into one, according to Jefferson Fire's Elaine Parrott, "Approximately half of the home suffered heavy fire damage and the other half heavy smoke damage."

1058 Talbot Rd. SE in Jefferson

Other family members living at the residence include Nate's wife Kristie, 29, daughter Molly, 2, brother David, 38, and sister Amanda, 21.

The home has belonged to the Axmaker family since 1989. This isn't the first time that the Axmaker family has had to call for emergency help. Several years ago they lost their barn, and in December a family member's car was stolen at gunpoint all at the same address.

The home is valued at $400,000 and the estimated damage to the structure and contents is over $100,000. The family indicated that the home is insured. The Willamette Chapter of the American Red Cross will be assisting them.

Firefighters from Turner, Stayton and Albany fire departments also assisted at the fire scene. Marion County Sheriff's Office assisted with traffic control since Talbot Road was down to one lane. There were no injuries reported.