FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

DATE: September 26, 2022

Southeast Salem house fire determined to be arson

Salem, Ore. — At approximately 12:35 p.m. on Friday, September 23, emergency responders were called to the area of Wilbur and Cross STS SE on a residential house fire. 

The Salem Fire Department responded to the fire which started on the porch but then quickly engulfed a large portion of the home. Residents quickly evacuated the dwelling and reported no injuries. One firefighter is receiving medical treatment for minor injuries received at the scene.

Salem Police patrol officers interviewed witnesses and determined a teenager set a lit sparkler into a Halloween decoration, causing the fire. The teen was identified and arrested. 

The 16-year-old male juvenile was lodged at the Marion County Juvenile Detention Center on the following charges:

• Arson in the first degree
• Criminal mischief in the first degree
• Reckless endangering

The Salem Police Department does not release the names of minors involved in criminal investigations.

All further inquiries on this case should be directed to the Marion County District Attorney’s Office.

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