Fire causes $250,000 damage to Redmond townhomes

A fire that caused $250,000 damage to two northwest Redmond townhomes Friday afternoon was sparked by an electrical short from a computer up against some combustible items, an investigation determined.

Deputy Fire Marshal Clara Butler conducted the investigation into the fire, reported shortly before 1 p.m. in the 400 block of Northwest 25th Street.

Crews arrived to find the first floor of a two-story townhouse engulfed in flames and smoke pouring from the two front windows, Battalion Chief Jeff Puller said.

Redmond police helped notify and evacuate neighbors and also rescued a German shepherd from the adjoining townhome, which also sustained smoke and water damage. A vehicle parked in front of the townhome also sustained damage.

Firefighters were able to quickly knock down the fire and go into the townhome for salvage and overhaul operations.

An American Red Cross disaster response team was called in to assist the three occupants from the two damaged townhomes.

Mutual-aid assistance was provided b Bend and Cloverdale fire crews, Pacific Power, and Redmond police and public works departments.