Unattended Campfire Destroys Unhoused Mans Shelter Near Bend

Bend Fire & Rescue (BF&R) and Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office (DCSO) responded to a report of a structure fire several miles north of Bend in the area of Juniper Ridge on 11/19/2022 at 4:42 PM.

DCSO was first on scene and assisted with directing BF&R units into the scene. BF&R had 3 apparatus respond to the area to find a fire approximately 20’ x 25’ that spread from an unattended campfire to an attached non permitted temporary shelter and several large juniper trees.

Once on scene, the first arriving unit found active fire with flame lengths approximately 30’ in height that were close to an occupied camp. Units quickly extinguished the fire before it spread to nearby camp trailers and juniper trees. Occupant stated that he was building a fire and went to a nearby camp for more material to burn. Upon his return he found the fire he had started was spreading to the attached shelter and was out of his control.

During the fire investigation it was found that the campfire had spread to highly flammable materials inside the attached shelter and continued into surrounding vegetation.

It was determined that the fire was unintentional but did not meet the BF&R regulations and recommendations. Loss from the fire was estimated to be approximately $1,000 in personal belongings.

There were no injuries to occupants or responding personnel during the incident.