Empire District Fire, Jan. 3

CBFD release – The Coos Bay Fire Department was dispatched to a house fire in the Empire District of Coos Bay at 4:00 a.m. this Thursday morning, Jan. 2, 2020. Arriving on scene less than two minutes later, firefighters found heavy smoke coming from multiple locations around the house but found heavy fire involvement primarily on the south end of the house. Firefighters were able to quickly knockdown the main area of fire involvement, but they remained on scene for a couple more hours locating and extinguishing areas of attic space and an adjoining structure where the fire had spread. The property was insured, and the estimated value of the structure is approximately $195,000. It is considered a total loss. No injuries to occupants or firefighters occurred; however, three family pets died due to smoke inhalation. The cause of the fire is believed to be electrical in nature, and it is not considered intentional. Coos Bay Fire Department was assisted on scene by Charleston Rural Fire Protection District and North Bend Fire Department through the Coos County Mutual Aid System. Also assisting was Bay Cities Ambulance and Pacific Power. The Coos Bay Fire Department would like to remind its citizens that they offer a free smoke alarm installation program. If you would like any additional information about this fire, the free smoke alarm program, or Coos Bay Fire Department, contact them at 541-269-1191.