On April 15, 2018 at approximately 3:00 a.m., Oregon State Police and emergency personnel responded to a house fire in Northeast Salem. After preliminary investigation, the fire has been ruled an arson. Detectives and emergency personnel responded to 3552 Ward Drive NE in Salem for a report of a house fire at the location. It was soon learned there were actually two separate fires. Fires were found at the residence and the barn at the location. The fire at the residence was contained to a single bedroom and the barn was fully engulfed and was a complete loss. There were no reported injuries. The investigation determined the fire was suspicious and deemed it an arson investigation. The residence has been known to be occupied by transients and it is unknown who was the last to occupy both locations. The Oregon State Police is seeking the public assistance regarding this case. Anyone who has known people to frequent this location is asked to call the Oregon State Police at (800) 452-7888 and refer to case number SP18-135992. Detective Scott Yunker is the lead detective on this case.
