WILDERVILLE, Ore. (Apr. 20, 2026) — A fast response by an occupant and emergency crews helped rescue multiple people and pets from a house fire Sunday afternoon in rural Josephine County, authorities said.
The fire was reported at about 2:13 p.m. in the 5200 block of Fish Hatchery Road. Crews from Rural Metro Fire, Grants Pass Fire, American Medical Response of Josephine County, the Josephine County Sheriff’s Office and the Oregon State Police responded to reports of people trapped inside the home.
Firefighters arriving at the scene found a large two-story residence with smoke coming from both floors. Officials said an occupant had already taken quick action using a garden hose to knock down a kitchen fire, slowing its spread and buying critical time for responders.
Fire crews used ladders to access second-floor windows and were able to safely extract three occupants from the home. Two of those individuals were transported to a hospital with burn injuries and smoke inhalation, though their conditions were not immediately disclosed.
In addition to the residents, firefighters rescued several pets from the home, including three dogs, a cat and a turtle.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation, with assistance from the Oregon State Fire Marshal.
Discover more from Medford Alert News
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
