1 dead in SE Portland RV fire sparked by propane heater, officials say

PORTLAND – A person died in a fire in Southeast Portland early Tuesday morning after a propane heater sparked the blaze in a recreational vehicle, officials said.

The death marked the second fatality caused by fire in Southeast Portland in less than 24 hours.

Fire crews responded to the blaze in the 13700 block of Southeast Powell Boulevard around 2 a.m., said Rich Chatman.

Two people were sleeping inside the vehicle at the time. One of them was able to escape, though that person suffered from smoke inhalation. The second occupant died in the blaze, Chatman said.

A dog was also killed in the fire, according to Chatman. Neither of the victims was identified.

Investigators determined the fire was caused by improper use of a propane heater, Chatman said.

Another person died in a separate blaze at an apartment complex on Monday in Southeast Portland.