SISTERS, OR -- A Sisters-area yurt was destroyed in a Wednesday afternoon fire. Firefighters from the Sisters-Camp Sherman Fire District were initially dispatched to a brush fire that quickly escalated to a structure fire. The first units arrived at the home on Black Crater Avenue in time to witness an explosion and fireball that extended 10-15' in the air.

They discovered the main fire burning in debris on the ground, which turned out to be the remnants of a 16' diameter canvas yurt. Investigators believe the explosion was caused by an oil-filled heater that over-pressurized, due to contact with a flame. The initial cause of the fire is under investigation. It also destroyed a trampoline and part of a nearby fence. 

The manufactured home and detached garage on the property were not damaged. The family reports the yurt was primarily used for homeschooling their six children. The owner was outside, discovered the fire and called 911 at about 3 p.m. Wednesday.