Fire marshal releases cause of Graham fire that destroyed homes
A 275-acre wildfire that destroyed five houses and numerous outbuildings in Graham has been ruled accidental, according to the Pierce County Fire Marshal’s Office.
Strong winds late Monday toppled a tree onto power lines and dry vegetation burst into flames, starting what is now known as the 244th Command Fire.
It was originally estimated to be 100 acres, but better tools enabled fire officials to do a more accurate count Thursday.
“Now that we’re in there, we got a look,” Graham Fire Assistant Chief Steve Richards said.
The fire is about 70 percent contained.
Flames destroyed five homes in the 15400 block of 240th Street East within hours of the wildfire exploding, moving quickly through dry brush thanks to high winds. Record-breaking heat this week has helped to fuel the blaze but it is mostly contained.
On Wednesday night, the evacuation was lifted and the 100 or so residents forced to flee returned home.
Crews will likely be on scene through the weekend putting out hot spots, Richards said.
This story was originally published September 10, 2020 at 2:31 PM.
