A brush fire believed to be started by fireworks spread to a nearby duplex Monday afternoon in Hermiston destroying the structure, but no one was injured.
According to the Umatilla County Fire District #1, the grass fire began around 1 p.m. and was pushed by strong winds into a residential area near the Oxbow Trail at N.W. 13th Street and W. Ridgeway Ave.
The fire entered the attic space of the duplex, which was described as a total loss. The fire, according to the fire district, was accelerated by a shed that also burning near the duplex.
A total of 35 people were evacuated for safety reasons. Firefighters were able to keep the flames from spreading to five nearby homes and 12 apartments.
Also responding to the fire on Monday were the Morrow County EMS, and fire crews from Boardman and Pendleton. A total of 40-50 firefighters were involved.
Crews spend several hours cleaning up and checking for hot spots.
Officials caution people to use extra care when using fireworks during hot and windy days.
