Linn County Sheriff Michelle Duncan reports yesterday, June 5, 2024, at 7:33 p.m., Linn County Dispatch received a report of flames coming from the Storage Depot in the 36000 block of Highway 34, near Lebanon. The fire was reported to grow quickly.
Multiple law enforcement and fire personnel responded to the scene and found multiple storage units involved with active fire. Deputies contacted the caller, Micah Schulte, 43, of Lebanon who gave statements about a torch in his possession that caused the fire after it fell against furniture. Statements provided included using the torch to heat concentrated marijuana product.
Deputies will continue to investigate as leads develop and more information becomes available from the Oregon State Fire Marshalls Office. Schulte was taken into custody and lodged at the Linn County Jail for Reckless Burning and Criminal Mischief II.
Fire crews and deputies continue to work on scene and gather information. The cost of the damage is unknown at this time, but several storage units are impacted, and the damage will be significant.
Anyone with information is encouraged to contact Detective Caleb Riley with the Linn County Sheriff’s office at (541) 967-3950.