BEND, OR -- Coals from a backyard firepit are blamed for a Sunday afternoon fire that displaced two families. According to Bend Fire & Rescue, one of the residents disposed of coals into a plastic recycling bin located outside, between the two homes. The ashes ignited the other contents of the bin and spread to the outside wall, eventually catching the other house. 

Firefighters responded just after 4 p.m. and knocked down the flames, but both buildings sustained substantial damage. A vehicled in the driveway also suffered minor damage. Crews remained for an extended period, due to a gas leak at one home. The meter was destroyed and Cascade Natural Gas had to excavate in order to shut off the gas.  

No one was injured, but damage is estimated at $300,000.

photo courtesy of Bend Fire & Rescue