Back-to-back fires strike in Des Moines

From staff reports:

South King Fire and Rescue firefighters responded to back-to-back structure fires on Friday, March 9. Both fires were less than one-fourth of a mile apart in Des Moines.

The first fire was reported at 1:33 p.m. at 417 S. 212th St. in Des Moines. Four adults and two dogs were at home when the fire was discovered. All escaped from the home with one adult receiving minor burns to his feet, according to SKFR. He was treated and released by King County paramedics at the scene. The fire appeared to have started on a second-story covered deck at the rear of the home, SKFR reports. The fire spread to the interior of the home and the attic. The cause is under investigation by the King County Fire Investigation Unit. The estimated loss was set at $120,000

The second fire was reported at 3:39 p.m. Friday at 20926 9th Ave. S. in Des Moines. Several fire units and command staff were still at the first fire.

The vacant house was fully engulfed in flames upon the arrival of fire crews. SKFR reports the fire was difficult to extinguish. The home had a basement, which allowed burning debris to accumulate. Fire officials decided to allow the debris to smolder overnight and had plans to dig out the debris with heavy machinery the following day, if necessary, the fire district reports. The fire has been ruled an arson by the King County Fire Investigation Unit. The home is a total loss.

Both fires required help from neighboring fire districts including Burien, Seatac and Kent.

 

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