SPOKANE, Washington – The Spokane Fire Department responded to several wildfires in the western Spokane region today and is investigating the cause of the fires.

At 6 p.m. on Sunday, the Spokane Fire Department responded to multiple reports of a brush fire spreading to trees in the 2900 block of West Riverside Avenue. Fire Engine 4 arrived within four minutes and found a fire extending to approximately 100 feet by 50 feet involving grass and trees. Firefighters said while they were attempting to contain that fire, a second fire was reported across the street, prompting a second brush fire alarm. This response required additional resources from the Spokane Valley Fire Department, Washington Department of Natural Resources and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

The second fire spread rapidly, burning an estimated 3 to 5 acres of grass and brush on a steep hillside near The Ridge Condominiums. Firefighters fought the blaze from below while others protected the condominiums from the top of the hill. The fire was contained to the condominiums’ irrigated lawn, preventing over $4.5 million in property damage.

The fire’s spread was accelerated by dry vegetation and steep terrain, but the lack of strong winds, minimal spot fires, well-maintained defensive areas, and rapid response by multiple agencies helped contain the fire without property damage or injuries.

Firefighters said they would continue to reinforce containment lines, extinguish smoldering areas and patrol the fire area in search of hot spots in the coming days.

According to SFD reports, there was evidence of a suspicious man in the area who witnesses said may be connected to the fires. Both fires are currently under investigation by Spokane Police and there is no information available at this time regarding the suspect. Investigators are currently interviewing witnesses and searching for surveillance footage.

According to SFD, there were four fires tonight and the cause is currently under investigation.

The Spokane Fire Department asks the public to report suspicious activity to Crime Check at (509) 456-2233 or call 9-1-1 if there is an imminent threat. With cooler temperatures and possible precipitation forecast for the week and strong winds expected this weekend, the risk of extreme fire events remains high. Anyone with information about the fires is asked to contact Crime Check or the Spokane Fire Department’s fire hotline at (509) 625-7199.

FOX28 Spokane©