Portland City Councilor Candace Avalos is urging caution after a weekend fire destroyed her car and damaged her East Portland home. While investigators say there’s no evidence the fire was intentionally set or meant to target her, Avalos believes it’s too soon to rule anything out—especially given the tense political climate facing public officials nationwide.
Fire Damages Avalos’ Property
The blaze broke out late last weekend, reportedly starting in a neighboring storage shed before spreading to Avalos’ carport and the side of her home. Fire and police investigators concluded that there was no accelerant or incendiary device and said the fire did not begin on Avalos’ property. Still, the councilor and her family were forced to relocate while the home undergoes repairs.
Authorities shared surveillance footage of a man walking in the parking lot near the scene, asking the public to help identify him. They clarified he was not a suspect but may have witnessed the fire or have information relevant to the case.
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Avalos Connects Incident to Broader Political Threats
On Thursday night, Avalos published a blog post reflecting on the incident and expressing concern about potential political motives, even if unproven.
“We still don’t know yet if the fire was targeted, or even if it was set on purpose,” Avalos wrote. “Whatever the cause, this didn’t happen in a vacuum. In our current national context, it’s hard not to connect this moment to everything happening around us—the threats, the division, the way public service sometimes puts a target on your back.”
She linked her experience to a string of high-profile violent acts against public officials, referencing the assassination of former Minnesota House Speaker Melissa Hortman and the arson attack on the Pennsylvania governor’s mansion earlier this year.
Avalos also shared that, just days before the fire, her office received a threatening email that read: “Hope the entire state burns and your house is the first one to go.” She described how such threats weigh heavily on public officials, writing, “It’s impossible not to feel the weight of it all.”
Councilor Urges Caution in Police Statements
In a statement to Willamette Week, Avalos said she’s not assuming political motivation but is concerned police may have drawn premature conclusions.
“I do not know, nor am I assuming, that the fire was politically motivated or targeted at me,” Avalos said. “What I do know is that there is evidence to suggest multiple possibilities, and I am concerned that police leadership may be jumping to conclusions before the investigation is complete.”
Avalos said she has urged deputy city administrator Bob Cozzie and the Portland Police Bureau to avoid speculation until all facts are known.
Police Response and Ongoing Investigation
Portland Police Bureau spokesperson Mike Benner said investigators are aware of Avalos’ comments and understand how “deeply traumatic” the experience has been for her and her neighbors. However, he reaffirmed that the bureau stands by its initial findings and would not release new details while the investigation continues.
“Investigators from the fire and police bureaus continue to work tirelessly on the case,” Benner added.
Political Context and Past Tensions
Avalos, known for her progressive stance and criticism of police practices, has long pushed for accountability and reform within the bureau. Her skepticism echoes tensions seen in past city controversies.
In 2021, former Commissioner Jo Ann Hardesty was falsely implicated in a hit-and-run after two police officers leaked inaccurate information. Hardesty later sued and settled for $680,000.
Similarly, in early 2024, former Commissioner Rene Gonzalez faced an arson attack that burned a family vehicle outside his home. Despite an online claim of responsibility, Gonzalez accused the city of failing to protect him adequately and later threatened legal action.
Community Support and Legal Questions
Following the fire, Avalos’ friends launched a GoFundMe campaign, raising $14,000 within 36 hours. However, questions have arisen about the legality of an elected official accepting such funds. Avalos’ office has not confirmed whether she will accept the money, and the City Attorney’s Office has declined to comment.
In the meantime, the City of Portland has agreed to provide Avalos with personal security.
Looking Ahead
As investigators continue their work, Avalos’ case underscores a growing national concern about the safety of public officials amid political polarization. Whether the fire was accidental or deliberate, the councilor’s experience highlights the anxiety many leaders now face while serving their communities.
