Hazel Dell, WA. — A fast-moving, three-alarm fire tore through the Ridgecrest Apartments on NE 104th Street early Thursday morning, leaving one person dead, another seriously injured, and at least a dozen units uninhabitable.
The fire was first reported at 12:30 a.m. and prompted an immediate and extensive emergency response. All rigs from Clark County Fire District 6 responded, joined by units from Vancouver Fire and Clark-Cowlitz Fire and Rescue. Upon arrival, firefighters found part of the complex fully engulfed in flames as residents scrambled to evacuate. A third alarm was issued within minutes.
Witnesses reported hearing a person screaming, followed by a series of explosions. Firefighters ultimately deployed 14 apparatus, supported by two Battalion Chiefs and numerous personnel.
One resident was transported to Legacy Emanuel Medical Center with second-degree burns. Another injured individual declined treatment at the scene. The American Red Cross was called to assist those displaced, providing emergency shelter and support.
Later in the day, Clark County Fire District 6 confirmed that a body had been discovered during the search of the debris. The identity of the deceased has not yet been released, and the cause of the fire remains under investigation. The Clark County Fire Marshal’s Office is leading the inquiry and will provide any further updates.
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