Grill mishap causes Northeast Portland triplex fire, 8 displaced

PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) -- A fire at a Northeast Portland triplex, reportedly caused by a barbecue grill mishap, displaced 8 residents Thursday night, authorities say.

At 9:15 p.m., Portland Fire & Rescue crews responded to reports of a fire near Northeast 81st Avenue and Oregon Street.

On arrival, firefighters said they found flames coming from the attic and all roof vents, extending to the outside of the building.

Although officials said no fire damage was seen in the living spaces, the fire was upgraded to second alarm due to heavy flames covering the entire attic space.

However, authorities say the fire was put out before the second-alarm crews even arrived.

Officials said the fire was caused by a barbecue grill falling over, igniting the siding of the triplex, which ran up the wall and into the attic.

Although there were no injuries reported and all residents were able to get out safely, they were displaced by the fire. Additionally, authorities said there were two cats within the triplex, but they are assumed unharmed at this time.