No Injuries in Salem Apartment Fire

The cause of the fire was determined to be accidental in nature, related to cigarette disposal.

Photo courtesy: Salem Fire Video by Jerry Freeman

(SALEM) - At approximately 6:46 p.m. on July 12, 2012, fire crews from the Salem Fire Department were dispatched to the 100 block of Stoneway Drive NW in Salem, Oregon for a report of a smoke from an apartment complex.

While en route, fire crews received additional information regarding visible flames, resulting in the fire response being upgraded to a second alarm. Upon arrival, fire crews began an aggressive fire attack while conducting primary searches and protecting exposures. As the fire extended into the upper floors of the three story apartment building, firefighters transitioned to a defensive attack and the fire response was upgraded to a third alarm, bringing additional firefighting resources.

The Salem Fire Department responded with a total of eight fire engines and two ladder trucks as well as command staff. An additional ladder truck from Keizer Fire District also responded to the scene. Rural Metro Ambulance responded for medical coverage and mutual aid assistance was received from multiple neighboring fire jurisdictions that provided standby coverage during the fire.

The fire was deemed under control at approximately 7:42 pm. No injuries to occupants or firefighters were reported. The fire damaged three units in the six-unit building, with some smoke and water damage in the three other units. Dollar loss estimates are unknown at this time. The American Red Cross responded to the scene to assist with 17 occupants who were displaced by the fire.

The cause of the fire was determined to be accidental in nature, related to cigarette disposal.

Also see: VIDEO UPDATE: Crews Battle Multi-Alarm Fire in West Salem