PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) — A late-night fire in Portland’s Bridlemile neighborhood was traced back to an unattended candle, according to Portland Fire & Rescue (PF&R). The incident, which occurred early Friday morning, caused significant damage to one apartment unit and displaced several residents due to water damage.
Fire officials said crews were dispatched around 12:15 a.m. to an apartment complex on Beaverton Hillsdale Highway, where smoke was reported coming from the upper floors of the building. Upon arrival, firefighters found flames contained to a single unit on the fourth floor.
Fire Contained by Sprinklers and Quick Response
In a statement, PF&R said the building’s sprinkler system played a crucial role in keeping the fire from spreading before crews arrived.
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“Crews found a room and contents fire in an extremely cluttered fourth-floor apartment unit that was partially suppressed by the building’s sprinkler system,” officials said. “Firefighters stretched a hose line to this unit and quickly extinguished the remainder of the fire.”
The flames were brought under control within minutes, preventing the incident from turning into a multi-unit emergency. The apartment’s heavy clutter, however, made firefighting operations more challenging, officials added.
No Serious Injuries Reported
No major injuries were reported, though one resident was evaluated for a possible panic attack at the scene. Paramedics assessed the individual as a precaution, and no hospitalization was necessary.
While the fire was contained to one unit, several neighboring apartments on the third floor sustained water damage due to the sprinkler activation and firefighting efforts. Crews remained on-site for several hours to assist affected residents and ensure the building was safe.
Missing Smoke Alarms Found in Unit
Following an investigation, fire inspectors determined that the cause of the blaze was an unattended candle left burning overnight. The investigation also revealed concerning safety lapses inside the apartment.
“An investigator found that one smoke alarm in the apartment unit was missing and another was not operational,” PF&R said.
Fire officials emphasized the importance of maintaining working smoke alarms and avoiding the use of open flames near flammable materials.
Fire Officials Issue Candle Safety Reminder
Friday’s incident prompted PF&R to remind Portland residents about the dangers of unattended candles — one of the most common causes of residential fires.
Safety tips from Portland Fire & Rescue include:
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Never leave candles burning unattended or while sleeping.
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Keep candles at least 12 inches away from anything that can burn.
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Always place candles on sturdy, nonflammable surfaces.
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Consider using flameless LED candles as a safer alternative.
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Test smoke alarms monthly and replace batteries annually.
Officials noted that fires caused by candles often occur during colder months, when residents use them for decoration or relaxation. “One moment of inattention can lead to devastating loss,” a PF&R spokesperson said.
Community Assistance and Aftermath
Building management and local relief organizations are assisting residents affected by the water damage. Firefighters credited the sprinkler system and the quick response from multiple PF&R units for preventing a larger tragedy.
“This incident is a reminder of how critical early detection and suppression systems are in saving lives and property,” the department said.
As of Friday morning, cleanup crews were working to remove water and debris from several apartments, while fire investigators completed their reports.
No criminal activity is suspected in connection with the blaze. The total cost of the damage has not yet been determined, but officials estimate it will be tens of thousands of dollars.
For now, fire officials say the message is simple: never leave a candle unattended — even for a few minutes.
