Multi-Agency Response Protects Illinois Valley During Two July 19 Fires (Photo) - 07/20/26
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 20, 2026
Multi-Agency Response Protects Illinois Valley During Two July 19 Fires
CAVE JUNCTION, Ore. — The Illinois Valley Fire District extends its sincere appreciation to the more than 60 emergency response units and the numerous local, county, state, and federal agencies that responded to two significant fire incidents on Sunday, July 19, 2026, on Waldo Road and Ridge Vista Drive.
The Waldo Road incident involved 29 responding units, including 22 fire units, 4 law enforcement units, and 3 AMR EMS units. The Ridge Vista Drive incident involved 33 responding units, including 26 fire units, 6 law enforcement units, and 1 AMR EMS unit. Fourteen emergency response units were assigned to both incidents, demonstrating the level of coordination, cooperation, and resource sharing required to successfully manage multiple emergencies occurring simultaneously.
Responding agencies included the Illinois Valley Fire District, Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF), Bureau of Land Management (BLM), U.S. Forest Service (USFS), Rural Metro Fire, Grants Pass Fire & Rescue, Rogue Valley Strike Team II (RV-II Response) consisting of Jackson County Fire District #1 (Central Point), Jackson County Fire District #3, Medford Fire Department, Jacksonville Fire Department, Jackson County Fire District #4, Jackson County Fire District #5, Jackson County Fire District #6, and Applegate Fire District, as well as Williams Rural Fire Protection District, Josephine County Sheriff's Office, Oregon State Police, American Medical Response (AMR), Josephine County 911 Dispatch, and Josephine County Emergency Management.
The Illinois Valley Fire District would like to recognize the exceptional teamwork demonstrated by every 911 dispatcher, firefighter, law enforcement officer, Oregon State Trooper, EMS provider, emergency manager, and support personnel involved. From the first 911 call until the final unit returned to service, every individual played a vital role in protecting lives, property, and the communities of the Illinois Valley. The professionalism, communication, and cooperation displayed by all responding agencies exemplified the very best of the fire service and public safety.
During fire suppression operations, one firefighter sustained an injury and was transported for medical evaluation. The firefighter was treated and released from the hospital and is recovering in good spirits. We are grateful for the outstanding medical care provided and wish our firefighter a full and speedy recovery.
The Illinois Valley Fire District also extends its sincere appreciation to the citizens of the Illinois Valley for their vigilance, cooperation, and support during these incidents. This time of year, early reporting is one of the most effective tools we have in preventing small fires from becoming large incidents. We encourage everyone to remain alert, report smoke or fire immediately by calling 911, and continue to follow the directions of emergency personnel. Your awareness and prompt reporting play a critical role in helping protect lives, property, and our beautiful valley.
I would also like to extend my personal gratitude to the career and volunteer members of the Illinois Valley Fire District. Your dedication to serving this community, your willingness to answer the call at any hour, and the professionalism you demonstrate every day make our district stronger. Whether responding from the station or leaving your families and workplaces to volunteer, your commitment to protecting the Illinois Valley does not go unnoticed. Thank you for your service, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment to those we serve.
These incidents are a reminder that protecting our communities is a shared responsibility. No single agency accomplishes this mission alone.
Success is built on strong partnerships, effective communication, mutual trust, and a common commitment to serving the public.
On behalf of the Illinois Valley Fire District, I extend my heartfelt gratitude to every responding agency and every individual who answered the call. Your professionalism, dedication, and unwavering commitment exemplify the very best of public service. It is an honor to serve alongside each of you in protecting the citizens and visitors of the Illinois Valley.
Together, we are stronger. Together, we protect the Illinois Valley.
Respectfully,
John Holmes, M.S., CFO
Fire Chief
Illinois Valley Fire District
