Salem-News.com (Aug-19-2006 23:56)

Two Teenage Males Sought in Fire at Ecola State Park

Salem-News.com

Nearly 50 firefighters are on scene, Ecola Beach parking lots are closed, and police say they are looking for possible arsonists.

(CANNON BEACH) - The Oregon State Police is seeking information to help identify two possible suspects that may be responsible for a fire that local firefighters are attempting to control at Ecola State Park near Cannon Beach.

Lt. Gregg Hastings says at approximately 4:15 PM, a fire was reported on a bluff near the main parking area at Ecola State Park.

The fire is difficult to extinguish and there are now 40 - 50 firefighters on scene from numerous area fire departments and Department of Forestry. The fire is approximately one acre in size.

State parks personnel, Oregon State Police, Cannon Beach Police Department and Clatsop County Sheriff's Office evacuated an unknown number of people from the park.

The entrance into the park is now blocked to allow fire crews to bring the fire under control.

Hastings says witnesses indicated that two teenage males were observed shooting fireworks from the parking lot area just prior to the fire starting.

These individuals have not been identified Hastings said.

Anyone with information regarding this fire investigation is asked to contact

Oregon State Police at (800) 452-7888.

Two Teenage Males Sought in Fire at Ecola State Park

Salem-News.com