Three dogs perish in fire that destroyed motor home in ‘Dirt World’ homeless area, found to be accidental

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) – Several U.S. Highway 97 motorists north of Bend called to report a fire Tuesday evening that destroyed a motor home in the homeless camp area known as “Dirt World” north of Bend, and killed three dogs. Bend Fire & Rescue determined the fire was accidental, due to a propane leak.

The fire was reported shortly after 7 p.m. near Fort Thompson Lane as drivers spotted flames and black smoke rising from the trees about 50 yards east of the highway.

Deschutes County sheriff’s deputies said the fire had threatened to spread to trees and another vehicle but was stopped before doing so. It took about a half-hour for crews to knock down the fire.

Bend Fire Deputy Fire Marshal said Wednesday the fire was determined to be accidental. He said a woman lived in the camper with several dogs, three of whom unfortunately perished in the blaze.

"The occupant had a propane tank leak inside the camper, and it was close to a source of ignition," he said.

The trailer is a complete loss, Derlacki said, estimated at $5,000. He said friends are helping the occupant out.