Downtown John Day fire started in attic
By Logan Bagett on Tuesday, April 25th, 2023 in Eastern/Southeast Oregon News More Top Stories
JOHN DAY – It has been just over a week since a devastating fire destroyed and damaged multiple businesses in downtown John Day. According to John Day Fire Chief Don Gabbard, the fire began in the attic crawlspace of the building that housed three local businesses.
Gabbard said the State Fire Marshal’s Office as well as the Oregon State Police investigated the scene and concluded that the blaze was not likely arson, and the official cause could not be determined. The Chief made note that there was some electrical wiring in the attic, but it could not be determined if that was the cause.
No injuries were reported to firefighters who worked tirelessly throughout the evening and night. John Day Fire Chief Don Gabbard wanted to extend a special thanks to the fire departments that came to assist, both local and out-of-area. He also said to anyone interested in becoming a volunteer firefighter–they certainly need your help.
As for the affected businesses, most of them are still making plans on what to do next. DP Home Entertainment owner Dawn DeGrande thanks the community for their continued support. She said folks who usually pay their cell phone bills at Radio Shack can now do so by dialing 6-1-1 and paying with your credit card.
1188 Destinations and 1188 Brewing Company are closed for the time being, but they plan on brewing beer again here soon. They, along with their local brews will make their next appearance at the Grant County Chamber of Commerce’s Grape & Grain Festival on May 19th.
Fire & Ice Cream, to be located between Radio Shack and 1188 Destinations, was getting ready to open their doors for ice cream sales soon. They have an account set up at U.S. Bank for anyone interested in donating to help in their recovery efforts.
Wendy Cates’ Country Preferred Realty has set up a temporary office across Main Street and will continue to display listings on the window of the old building once things get cleaned up.
Local businesses and residents are teaming up with the John Day Elks Lodge to put on the Main Street Benefit Dinner on May 5th. The Cinco de Mayo-themed event will support the businesses affected by the fire as well as our local first responders who, along with their families, will eat for free. It’ll begin with dinner at 5 p.m. A silent auction will follow dinner until 8 p.m. Donated items can be dropped off at Madden’s Realty in John Day up until the 5th. Cash donations can be mailed or dropped off to the John Day Elks Lodge.
Stay tuned and stay posted for updates.
