September 16, 2025 3:50 a.m. 

Crews with North Douglas County Fire & EMS dealt with a structure fire in the Yoncalla area late Friday afternoon.

Fire Chief Brian Burke said the fire was reported at approximately 4:20 p.m. with callers saying that flames were visible coming from a window and the front door. Burke said neighbors reported that a dog was inside and they had attempted to alert occupants by banging on the door. Just after 4:30 p.m. deputies from the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office and troopers from Oregon State Police arrived on scene. They entered the smoke-filled residence and successfully rescued the dog. No other occupants were inside.

Burke said firefighters got to the scene a minute later and quickly brought the fire under control. Firefighters searched for fire extensions and confirmed that the blaze was contained. The homeowner later arrived and was reunited with the dog, who received oxygen and medical attention from North Douglas County Fire & EMS personnel.

The fire is believed to have originated from a burner left on the stove. Damage was concentrated in the kitchen, with smoke damage extending throughout the residence. The homeowner declined assistance from the American Red Cross.

Burke said due to water restrictions in place within the City of Yoncalla, firefighters utilized water tenders to supply suppression efforts, successfully limiting the need to draw water from city hydrants. No hydrant water was used during the incident.

North Douglas County Fire & EMS was also assisted by rural fire districts from Elkton, Oakland and Fair Oaks.