Photo: Ford, Brad
Photo: Dennis Weis/Portland Fire & Rescue
A suspect has been arrested in connection with a three alarm fire that destroyed a former church in downtown Portland. 27-year-old Cameron Storer is charged with arson and burglary.
The third alarm fire to the old wooden church located at the corner of SW 10th and SW Clay in downtown Portland caused significant damage. This damage was evaluated by personnel from City Engineer's office and was deemed unsafe and was approved for demolition.
Through the Portland Fire & Rescue Preventions Division and the Fire Marshall's Office the timeline to begin the project was expedited as this structure poses a danger to the surrounding area and is affecting surface street travel along with the Portland Streetcar operations. The removal project is slated to begin tomorrow, January 5, 2023, with the goal of removal of enough of the structure to open up the streets and return the Portland Streetcar to normal operation as soon as possible.
Until the demolition begins, Portland Fire & Rescue will maintain a fire watch operation with crews and apparatus on scene to provide any fire suppression needs if needed. A private company has been contacted to maintain the safety of the area when the fire crews formally disband. All travel in this area will be restricted until the building is removed. Perimeter safety barricades and fencing are in place to prevent people from getting into any harm's way. Avoid the area and plan accordingly for street closures that will include sidewalk traffic.
Source: Portland Fire & Rescue