Three-alarm fire displaced 12 units at Ridgecrest Apartments in Hazel Dell

A fast-moving blaze ripped through an apartment complex in Hazel Dell early Thursday (June 19) morning. While searching through the debris of the Ridgecrest Apartments on NE 104th Street, investigators discovered a body.  The identity of the deceased has not been released, nor has the cause of the blaze.

The fire also seriously injured one resident and displaced at least 12 units of the apartments. 

The fire was called in at 12:30 a.m. and triggered a massive response of all rigs from Clark County Fire District 6, as well as assistance from numerous engines from Vancouver Fire, and Clark-Cowlitz Fire Rescue.

Witnesses reported hearing a person screaming, followed by a series of explosions.  When units arrived, part of the apartment complex was already fully engulfed and residents were trying to evacuate.  A third alarm was called within minutes of the first arrival of units.

The injured person was transported to Legacy Emanuel Hospital with second degree burns.  A second injured resident declined treatment.  

In all, 14 firefighting apparatus fought the blaze, plus two additional battalion chiefs and a number of support personnel. 

The Red Cross has been called to provide temporary lodging for displaced residents.  The Clark County Fire Marshal was on scene to determine the cause of the blaze.

Information provided by Clark County Fire District 6.