Series of Suspicious Fires Investigated in Portland Neighborhoods

Authorities Believe 12 Fires Are Related

PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) — Firefighters in Portland are currently investigating a string of suspicious fires that occurred in the Laurelhurst, Belmont, and Hawthorne neighborhoods over the weekend, from Saturday night to Sunday morning.

While it is still early in the investigation, Portland Fire & Rescue officials have stated that these 12 fires appear to be connected.

According to reports from KOIN 6, most of the fires were intentionally set inside trash cans, with one incident resulting in a dumpster fire that spread to a nearby convenience store. Fortunately, no injuries have been reported as a result of these fires.

Despite the lack of injuries, the string of fires has left some residents concerned for their safety.

Julio, a resident living near the affected areas, expressed his fear, stating, “It’s scary. I just hope that it’s not a rising trend.”

Danny Moore, who resides directly above one of the 12 potential arson sites, recounted hearing a fire alarm but dismissing it as a false alarm, only to later discover that a fire had been deliberately set.

“These incidents all seem to be connected. Although we cannot confirm it at this time, the pattern has been noticed by our fire investigations unit,” said Rick Graves, spokesperson for Portland Fire & Rescue.

This series of suspicious fires comes just two months after officials investigated a string of 14 fires in south and northeast Portland, which were believed to have been set by a suspected serial arsonist. The suspect was later found dead.

While it is too early to definitively link the recent fires to the previous incidents, Portland Fire officials are urging residents to remain vigilant and review their security camera footage. The close proximity and similarities between the fires are cause for concern.

“Anytime someone intentionally sets fire to property, it is a concern for us. It raises the question of what could happen next,” Graves added.

Residents living near the affected areas are encouraged to report any unreported incidents and share any relevant surveillance footage with Portland Fire & Rescue.

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