PF&R Responds to multiple van fire overnight

At least four Amazon Prime electric delivery vans were destroyed in an early morning arson fire near the Rivian dealership and service center in Southwest Portland, prompting a large response from Portland Fire & Rescue and an active investigation by fire and police officials.

According to Portland Fire & Rescue, crews were dispatched shortly before 2:30 a.m. after multiple passing motorists reported trees on fire near the Rivian facility in the South Portland neighborhood. One caller also indicated that a van might be burning. The initial response sent a single engine to investigate.

When Engine 4 arrived, firefighters found several Amazon Prime electric delivery vans engulfed in flames. The incident was immediately upgraded to a commercial fire response, bringing five additional engines, two ladder trucks, a heavy squad, and two chief officers to the scene.

Firefighters focused first on protecting nearby buildings, vehicles, and vegetation from the rapidly spreading flames. Four electric delivery vans were burning, presenting unique challenges because of the lithium-ion battery systems inside the vehicles. Once these batteries enter thermal runaway, they become extremely difficult to extinguish and often must either be completely submerged in water or allowed to burn themselves out.

Crews maintained defensive operations, preventing the fire from spreading while allowing the battery cells to consume themselves. After the batteries had burned out, firefighters extinguished the remaining vehicle debris. Crews remained at the scene for approximately 90 minutes and successfully contained the fire to the four vans.

Fire officials said the smoke produced by the burning batteries contained highly toxic substances. Firefighters used self-contained breathing apparatus throughout the operation and were repeatedly reminded by command staff to avoid smoke exposure. Following the incident, crews decontaminated gear and uniforms using extraction systems at their stations.

Officials said there is no ongoing danger to nearby residents from smoke or fumes, and no injuries were reported.

The Portland Fire & Rescue-Portland Police Bureau Fire/Arson Investigations Unit has determined that the fires were intentionally set and is investigating the incident as arson.

Investigators are asking anyone with information, who observed suspicious activity, or who may have witnessed anything connected to the fire to contact the PF&R Fire Information Line at 503-823-3473 or email arsontips@police.portlandoregon.gov.

The investigation remains ongoing.