Scappoose Fatal Fire Investigation (Photo) - 08/09/23
At approximately 3:30 AM on August 6th, 2023, Scappoose Fire District responded to a residential fire in the 26000 block of NW St. Helens Rd., Scappoose, Oregon. Upon arrival, firefighters found the residence 75% involved. As fire attack began, firefighters were alerted that residents were still in a back bedroom. Unable to enter the structure through normal entry points, firefighters broke a window in the bedroom and removed two people and a pet. A third person was later recovered from the building. All three did not survive the fire.
Scappoose Fire District responded with volunteer and career staff, 2 engines, and a water tender. They were supported by Columbia River Fire & Rescue, Portland Fire & Rescue, Oregon Department of Forestry, American Medical Response, Columbia 9-1-1 Communications District, Columbia County Sheriff, and Multnomah County Sheriff's Office.
Scappoose Fire District and the Oregon State Fire Marshal conducted the fire investigation supported by members of Mist-Berkenfeld Rural Fire Protection District, Columbia River Fire & Rescue, Portland Fire & Rescue, Port of Portland, and the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office.
The lead agency for the death investigation is the Oregon State Police.
Through examination of the fire scene, fire investigators have been able to determine the area or origin was in the front living area of the home. Investigators have been able to rule out any incendiary causes and believe the fire cause to be accidental in nature. The fire scene has been released to the insurance company.
At this time, we can confirm that there were 3 fatalities: Shuri Hahmeyer (age 38), Nevayeh Callaway (age 9), and Zerych Callaway (age 6), as well as the family dog, Dude and cat, Misschiff.
Shuri’s oldest daughter (age 14) was not at home at the time of the fire.
We would like to express our sincere condolences to the Hahmeyer family for their tremendous loss. We are also humbled by the outpouring of support from the Scappoose community to all those impacted by this tragedy including the family, friends, and first responders. We ask, at this time, to provide privacy to the Hahmeyer family as they grieve and deal with the aftermath of such as horrible loss.
Tragedies like these remind us how quickly fire growth can happen. We urge everyone to check their smoke detectors to ensure they have good batteries, are operating normally, and are installed in proper locations including inside each bedroom, outside each sleeping area, and on every level of the home. The earlier you can be alerted to a fire, the quicker you, and your loved ones, can get out safely.
If you know the Hahmeyer family and are impacted by their loss, please reach out to someone. The Scappoose School District is offering support services for staff, students, and families impacted by their loss.
Resources for Staff, Students, and Families:
Staff members are welcome to come to Grant Watts for counseling or grief resources on Friday, August 11, at 11:00 am.
Students needing support may come together at Grant Watts on Friday, August 11, at 1:00 pm, where district and community counselors will offer their services.
There is also a Resource Table with information for children and families set up outside Grant Watts’ front office.
Community members will find notecards to share a message or memory that will be given to the family at the same Resource Table at Grant Watts.
For information on resources for first responders, please contact Fire Chief Jeff Pricher.
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