Fatal Fire in Riddle, March 6

Update, Douglas Co. Sheriff’s office.  On Thursday evening, March 2, the Sheriff’s Office received notification that Tabitha Howell and Andrew Hall-Young both succumbed to the injuries they received in Wednesday morning’s fire. The cause of the fire is still under investigation by the Oregon State Fire Marshall’s Office. They have confirmed that there was a space heater present in the home, and have not ruled it out as a possible ignition source. However, until their investigation is complete, an official cause will not be released. To this point in the investigation, foul play is not suspected. At the time of the fire, there were 7 household members present inside the residence. Four people died at the scene and three were transported to Mercy Medical Center and then transferred to Legacy Emanuel in Portland.