Bend Fire & Rescue Responds To Two Fires Within An Hour On Sunday Afternoon. (Photo) - 07/26/26

Bend Fire & Rescue first responded at 1:46 pm to a reported fire behind the Red Lion Hotel on Butler Market Rd next to the parkway. A brush fire was reported in the open area behind the hotel and spreading fast. Bend Fire, with the assistance of Bend Police and the US Forest Service, arrived quickly and were able to stop the fire before it could damage the hotel. The hotel was evacuated as a precaution, but occupants were let back in within the hour. Butler Market Rd was shut down during fire operations for fire fighters and drivers safety. The parkway south bound was impacted as the outside lane was shut down as fire engines worked off the side of the road.

The fire was stopped at just over an acre in size. A small spot fire was noted on the north side of Butler Market but was quickly extinguished. The fire appears to have originated from an abandoned fire in a houseless encampment. Bend Police are continuing the investigation.

We are in extreme fire danger, even with the drop in temperatures and wind from the past few days. Debris burning is strictly forbidden right now throughout Central Oregon. A fire like this will at least result in a citation for illegal burning but may also carry more charges such as reckless burning. We ask that even campfires be held off for now. We are not even into August yet and resources throughout Oregon are stretched to the maximum on fires. Anything we can do to lessen the chances of fires is greatly appreciated by all residents and fire fighters.

As fire crews were working on mopping up the brush fire, a house fire was reported at 2:49 pm on Starling Dr on Bend’s east side. Neighbors noticed smoke coming from a house where the occupants were out of town and called 911. Redmond Fire was initially dispatched as all Bend fire engines were tied up on the brush fire. Fire engines were able to quickly exit the fire on Butler Market and make their way to the fire on Starling. First arriving crews found smoke coming from the house and no one home.

The cause was determined to be food left on the stove. The occupants had returned home earlier in the day and accidentally left food on the stove as they left again. The fire and smoke damaged the entire home before being extinguished. Red Cross is assisting the owners with housing until their homeowner’s insurance can step in to help. Damages estimated at $100,000 to the home and contents.

Always keep an eye on what you’re cooking. If you’re in a hurry, set a timer to remind yourself of the pot on the stove or food in the oven.

Structure Fire On Evelyn Court (Photo) - 07/08/26

BEND, OR - Bend Fire & Rescue responded to a reported structure fire shortly before 5 p.m. Wednesday at 21312 Evelyn Court. Bend Fire Department responded with three fire engines, one ladder truck, two ambulances, and three investigators. The first-arriving crew found heavy smoke coming from the front of the home and the back porch fully involved in fire. Firefighters quickly brought the fire under control and prevented it from spreading further.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation. The homeowner and all occupants were out of town at the time of the fire. No injuries to civilians or firefighters were reported. The fire damage caused to the structure is estimated to be $75,000. The homeowner has insurance and is working with the insurance company on the restoration.

Bend Fire & Rescue reminds residents that Central Oregon is experiencing extreme fire conditions. Residents should use caution while operating BBQ’s, having warming fires (where permitted), sparks or ember producing equipment, and properly disposing of smoking materials. Taking a few extra precautions can help reduce the risk of accidental fires and protect lives and property. Ensure there is always water on site nearby, dispose of ashes in a noncombustible container, and being alert of ember producing equipment.