*** UPDATE *** The cause continues to be an open case with SFD's SIU. However, one probable scenario is that a 7,600 volt electrical line fell near a passenger vehicle near the dispatched intersection. The arcing power line subsequently energized the direct area with high levels of electricity which also resulted in a grass fire. The grass fire spread to the passenger vehicle. Simultaneously the electrical energy also transferred to a metal fence which energized the entire fenced area and resulted in below-ground involvement of a nearby gas line. These set of circumstances produced a rapidly progressing, natural gas fed fire that continued to generate flames from the ground in multiple areas. The flames that emanated from the ground started multiple fires around the two homes as well as areas from the exterior of the home.
An item of note- during the investigation, it was found that the electrical energy was powerful enough to weld the gates and hinges on the electrical fence together. The metal on the gates were actually melted.
DAMAGE EXTENT: A passenger vehicle sustained significant damage. Additionally, metal fences and exterior areas on homes received varying levels of damage. Natural gas service has been disconnected to several homes and Avista is the primary media contact for estimates on restoration of utility service.
DOLLAR LOSS: 5000
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 28
MUTUAL AID: None Given
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