Fire, explosions kill 1 person in Southeast Portland apartment complex

PORTLAND – One person was found dead in a Southeast Portland apartment complex Monday morning after reports of explosions and a fire that engulfed the complex.

Fire crews responded to reports of explosions in the 6900 block of Southeast 72nd Avenue around 11:30 a.m. They found the body of a 49-year-old who had died. All other occupants made it out safely, according to Portland Fire & Rescue.

The explosions were likely caused by small propane tanks in the victim’s bedroom being used with a propane heater, officials said.

The fire extended through the attic of all four units of the one-story apartment complex.

Investigators determined the fire was intentionally set by the person who was found dead in their apartment, who may have been suffering from a mental health crisis. A neighbor had attempted to rescue the the apartment’s occupant, but the victim ran back into the burning room where they were later found by firefighters, officials said.