NEWS

Downed power line sparks two-alarm fire

On Sunday, June 27 about 7:20 p.m., Keizer Fire District (KFD) was dispatched to a power line down near the 4300 block of Rowan Ave N. as more 911 calls came in it was quickly upgraded to a house fire. 

Upon arrival, the fire crew called for a second alarm as a house, power pole, cars and a neighboring shed was on fire. Due to the excessive heat and wind, the fire moved rapidly and several spot fires occurred from embers at neighboring homes. Several spot fires were also in backyards creating access issues and roads were blocked by down power lines

Keizer Police Department blocked roads, located spot fires and worked to evacuate neighboring homes with the assistance of Marion County Sheriff’s Office. 

KFD received assistance from Salem Fire, Marion County Fire and Falckk Ambulance. In total there were nine engines, two battalion chiefs, one squad, three medic units and one fire investigator on scene. 

Power was out to over 50 homes while crews worked to extinguish the fire, investigate and the Salem Electric has to repair/replace lines. 

During this event Falck Ambulance, Marion County Fire and Salem Fire Department responded to three of calls for service in Keizer while KFD was busy at the scene.