Olympia, WA (February 5, 2025) — The Olympia Fire Department responded to a structure fire at an abandoned house near Lybarger Street Southeast and 8th Avenue Southeast on Monday evening. The fire was reported at approximately 7:29 p.m., with firefighters arriving to find smoke coming from the building.
At 7:47 p.m., crews confirmed an active fire in the attic and began suppression efforts. During their search, firefighters discovered an individual inside the building. The patient was conscious and was safely removed from the structure for medical evaluation. The extent of their injuries has not yet been confirmed.
Emergency responders continued working at the scene to contain the fire and assess potential hazards. Local authorities are investigating the cause of the fire and whether the individual had been residing in the abandoned property.
Fire Safety in Abandoned Buildings
Fires in abandoned structures pose significant dangers to both occupants and first responders. These buildings may contain hazardous conditions such as weakened floors, structural instability, and blocked exits. Fires can also spread quickly due to dry materials and a lack of active fire prevention measures.
Individuals who enter vacant buildings may face increased risks of injury due to exposure to smoke, heat, and potential collapse. If someone becomes trapped in a burning structure, immediate emergency response is critical to ensuring survival.
To reduce the risk of fires in abandoned buildings, local authorities encourage property owners to secure vacant properties, enforce fire code regulations, and report suspicious activity that could lead to arson or unsafe conditions.
If you or a loved one has been affected by a fire-related incident, understanding your options for medical care and recovery is essential. Local Accident Reports is committed to keeping the community informed about emergency incidents and available resources. Our goal is to assist those impacted by fires by providing helpful information and connections to support services.