Quick Response Stops Vehicle Fire From Spreading
Published 1:30 am Tuesday, September 9, 2025
What began as a wisp of white smoke last Tuesday evening quickly turned into a potentially dangerous blaze in Forks.
Armistead L. Coleman was among the first to spot the fire.
“I saw the small white smoke, then it grew… I was like, oh oh,” Coleman told the Forks Forum. “I called Mike Z first, he didn’t answer. Then the smoke went black. I hung up and called 911. They were there within minutes!! Really great response!”
According to Emma-Grayce Qunneke, Public Information Officer for District 1, Engine 92 was initially dispatched around 7 p.m. to what was reported as a wildland fire near 7th Avenue and Bogachiel Way.
“Upon arrival the incident was updated—it was a vehicle fire that had spread into the adjacent wildland,” Qunneke reported. “E92, A95, U91, 901, and our Wildland Fire Special Team responded and got immediate knock down of the fire.”
No injuries were reported, but officials emphasized the risk posed by late-summer dry conditions. The fire, a suspected arson, remains under investigation, and authorities are asking the public to help.
“If anyone has information on seeing anyone enter the area around 19:00–19:15 on Sept. 2, please call the Forks Police non-emergency line,” Qunneke said.
Thanks to sharp-eyed neighbors and a swift response from firefighters, the blaze was stopped before it could spread further.
