A fire that started from a failed electrical panel destroyed a crematorium at Deschutes Memorial Gardens late Friday Night. According to Bend Fire & Rescue, at 11:23 pm, Bend Fire & Rescue was dispatched to a reported fire in the area of Highway 97 north of Grandview Dr. and Clausen Dr. Callers initially believed it to be a brush fire in the area, but it was found to be the approximately 1,200 square foot crematorium building at Deschutes Memorial Gardens. The building was fully involved in fire when fire crews arrived, with some spread to the adjacent trees and vegetation. As the structure was a complete loss, crews implemented defensive firefighting operations, protecting exposures and preventing the fire from spreading beyond the building, as well as extinguishing the fire in adjacent brush and trees. Complete extinguishment of the fire was delayed as natural gas was venting from the fire-damaged gas meter and fueling the fire. Cascade Natural Gas arrived on scene and was able to shut off the 2 inch gas line, at which time the fire was completely extinguished.
A fire investigation to determine origin and cause was conducted by Bend Fire with the assistance of the Oregon Office of State Fire Marshal. The fire was determined to be accidental in nature, and was caused by the failure of the main electrical panel inside the structure. Losses are estimated at $125,000 for the structure and $275,000 for the contents.
Bend Fire & Rescue would like to remind the community to know the systems that supply their homes and businesses. Know where your electrical panels are located, keep them clear of combustibles, and know how to shut off the power if needed. Know where the gas meter is, how your gas appliances operate, and how to turn off the gas if needed. For more safety tips on electricity and natural gas, visit our website at https://www.bendoregon.gov/
