Valentines Morning Blaze Investigated as Suspicious

On Friday morning, February 14th, reports of multiple explosions and vehicles fleeing the scene rocked a quiet neighborhood early Friday morning of Cedar Valley Drive.

Fire crews from Rural Metro and Grants Pass Department of Public Safety arrived to find a single-story home 50% involved. No occupants were located on arrival, and lacking information that everyone had escaped safely, firefighters initiated a rapid search of the home. After receiving an “all clear”, firefighters focused all resources on knockdown of the fire and salvage of undamaged contents. The fire was declared under control within an hour.

A 2nd alarm was requested, activating mutual aid engine companies from Rogue River Fire District, Applegate Valley Fire District and Illinois Valley Fire District. In all, 15 fire units and over 30 firefighters mobilized to the scene. Five additional engines were positioned strategically to cover additional calls.

(courtesy Rural Metro Fire and Fire and Illinois Valley Fire District)

No injuries have been reported, however, the status of the occupant(s) remains unknown. The cause of the fire is being investigated as suspicious. Anyone with information is urged to contact detectives with the Josephine County.