Northeast Portland fire crews extinguished a residential fire early this afternoon. Difficult access and reports of residents reentering the burning building to search for two missing cats increased the complexity of the incident.

One occupant of the home, an adult male, suffered smoke inhalation after reentering the structure to search for the cats. He was not transported. Another occupant of the home, an elderly male, is being transported. It is uncertain if the man's medical need resulted from the fire.

Reporting "high heat and heavy smoke," firefighters assigned to fire attack reached the seat of the fire and brought the fire under control within minutes. At the same time, firefighters performed a primary and secondary search of the entire structure--locating no victims.

Though the fire is extinguished, crews remain on scene searching for the missing cats, removing fire debris from the home, and investigating the cause.

Damage estimates are not yet available.

Entering a burning building for any reason is discouraged by firefighters. Though efforts by occupants are always meant to help, frequently these individuals become fire victims and require the attention of fire crews, thus reducing the availability of firefighters for rescue and fire operations.

Incident Address:
8848 NE Russell Place

Contact Info:
Firefighter Gabriel Watson
503-940-6003