Arson probe underway at senior apartment building
By Terry Murry on Wednesday, January 25th, 2023 in Columbia Basin News More Top Stories
RICHLAND, Washington – An arson investigation is underway after firefighters and police officers were dispatched to the Tri-Cities Terrace Apartments, 1770 Leslie Road, at 2:31 a.m. Tuesday for a fire alarm. Residents of the facility, an apartment community for senior citizens, reported seeing smoke and flames. The investigation is being led by the Richland Police Department.
One resident was transported to a local hospital for further medical evaluation. A total of 67 residents were either evacuated or were able to shelter in place at one of the nearby buildings. The facility’s fire suppression system did activate; however, the building sustained some smoke, fire and water damage before firefighters could fully extinguish the conflagration.
The Richland Fire Department is coordinating with the American Red Cross for temporary housing and to make the facility safe so that residents can return to their homes. An investigation into the cause of the fire has begun.
At this time, multiple suspicious fires appear to have been set within the building. No suspects have yet been identified. Anyone with information on who may have started these fires can contact the dispatch at 509-628-0333 or Arson Investigator Cameron Fancher at 509-942-7356.
