A man died in a house fire Friday evening, Dallas Fire & EMS said.
Around 6:19 p.m., crews responded to the 400 block of Southeast LaCreole Drive and immediately began rescue operations after learning that one person was inside. Firefighters found a man inside the home, but he succumbed to his injuries, according to Dallas Fire; he has not been identified at this time.
“Calls like this are never easy for our firefighters or our community. Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with the family of the victim during this incredibly difficult time,” said Dallas Fire’s department chaplain in a statement.
Crews also found two dogs inside, who were safely removed.
Firefighters described the conditions as “challenging,” making fire suppression and search operations difficult, but ultimately, the fire was contained, with crews remaining at the scene afterwards. The public was asked to avoid the area and watch out for emergency personnel.
The American Red Cross will be working with the family to provide assistance, Dallas Fire said. The cause of the fire is unknown.
The agency added that everyone should have a home fire escape plan, including knowing two ways out of every room, having a designated meeting place outside and making sure smoke alarms are working.
Dallas Police; Polk, Southwest Polk and Falls City fire departments; and the Oregon State Marshall assisted.