Stayton, OR, August 9, 2024 - On Wednesday, August 7, 2024, around 4:20 pm, Stayton Officers were notified of a grass fire in the 200 Blk of S 1st Ave, Stayton. The fire was quickly controlled by Stayton Fire Department, who were assisted by Sublimity, Aumsville, Turner, and Scio Fire Departments. The fire burned about 1/3 of an acre on the west side of S 1st Ave, near the Santiam River bridge. The fire damaged property of Northwest Natural Gas, Stayton Cooperative Phone Company and caught two power poles owned by Pacific Power on fire.
Shortly after the fire, Stayton Police Department received a tip from a motorist about suspicious activity surrounding a pickup that had been in the area prior to the fire.
On Thursday, August 8, 2024, while conducting additional follow-up, Stayton Police were able to develop a good lead in the investigation. An 18-year-old male was arrested for causing the fire as a result of throwing a burning object from a vehicle. He was transported to the Marion County Jail on charges of Throwing away lighted material (ORS 476.715) and Reckless Burning (ORS 164.335).
This is a good reminder that if you see something suspicious, be sure to report it to our non-emergency dispatch line (503-982-2340). It may be the one important piece to a bigger incident that is helpful in getting a positive resolution.
