A wildfire southeast of Salem has led to Level 3 evacuation orders, following a crash into a power pole that resulted in the Turner Road Fire. Oregon Live reports that the Marion County Sheriff’s Office is urging immediate evacuation for the affected areas on Turner Road near Rising Iris Lane Southeast.
Among those witnessing the wildfire's inception was a man named Ed, a former firefighter, who instantly recognized the peril as the flames expanded rapidly across the land. "Just in five minutes of talking to 911, it had gone 15, 20 to 30 yards out into the field," Ed told KPTV. On a hillside nearby, Sindy Williams and her husband could only observe from the porch of their home as the fire advanced and crews fought to control it.
The inferno, now known as the Turner Road Fire, has caused the closure of several roads, including Turner Road at Gath Road, and Gath Road at Witzel Road Wednesday evening. The Oregon State Fire Marshal called in air support in a joint effort with the Oregon Department of Forestry, states KATU News.
In addition to government agencies, local businesses also played a role in the firefighting efforts. Emery & Sons Construction was credited by the sheriff’s office for assisting the fire crews by managing the brush and fire line. According to a statement by the sheriff's office, the Turner Road Fire has already resulted in two structures being destroyed, a firefighter being injured, and evacuations being prompted. Firefighters were actively mopping up flames as of shortly before 7 p.m., still on the scene.
