Salem House Fire Ruled Suspicious

As Salem-News.com first reported, neighbors had been complaining about increased unlawful activity going on at the home.

On Wednesday evening, Marion County Fire District No. 1 and the Marion County Sheriff's Office responded to a house fire at 4240 Glendale Ave NE; the second fire at the same home in less than a month. Photo Courtesy: MCFD

(SALEM, Ore. ) - On Wednesday evening, Marion County Fire District No. 1 and the Marion County Sheriff's Office responded to a house fire at 4240 Glendale Ave NE; the second fire at the same home in less than a month.

As Salem-News.com first reported, the property, currently bank owned, has been vacant for more than a year according to neighbors who have reported an increase in transient activity on the property in the last few months.

When fire personnel arrived on scene, the home was completely involved with flames reaching 20' tall. Firefighters took a defensive approach to the main structure, which had already been ruled a total loss from the fire on May 16th, and focused efforts on the neighboring home which suffered fire damage on the East side of the structure, extending into the attic space.

Firefighters accessed the neighboring home's attic through the garage and suppressed that fire before further damage could be done to the home. The neighboring home suffered fire damage estimated at a loss of $35,000.

The fire was under control within 20 minutes thanks to the efforts of 30 firefighters and the response of 14 apparatus to the scene.

Like last month's fire, this fire is considered suspicious and is being investigated by MCFD1 Fire Marshal and Marion County Sheriff's Office. The Sheriff's Office is seeking any witnesses who may be able to provide information about teenagers seen on the roof of the structure approximately one hour prior to the blaze.

If you have any information regarding this incident you can call the Marion County Sheriff's Office Tip Line at 503-540-8079, you can remain anonymous.

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