Fireworks likely the cause of a 6-acre fire near Graham that burned multiple buildings

NEAR GRAHAM, Wash. — The Pierce County Sheriff’s Department says fireworks were the likely cause of a 6-acre fire that burned several buildings near Graham Monday afternoon.

Around 2:45 p.m. Monday fire crews from multiple departments were called to a 2-alarm fire near 260th Street East and 50th Avenue East in the Elk Plain area near Graham.

When firefighters arrived, the fire was burning structures as well as grass and brush. It was not immediately clear if the fire started as a brush fire or started in one of the structures.

The fire was estimated at 5-6 acres and burned a barn and several other outbuildings. 7 cars also burned. There were no injuries.

Around 4:45 p.m. the fire was 100% contained and firefighters were mopping up the scene.

Witnesses told investigators that they saw kids playing with fireworks just before the fire started. The cause of the fire remains under investigation by the PCSD and the fire marshal.

According to Graham Fire and Rescue, approximately 6 acres burned, along with two garages, multiple vehicles, and various outbuildings.

South Pierce Fire and Rescue responded to the fire, along with 28 units from Central Pierce Fire and Rescue, Graham Fire, West Pierce Fire and Rescue, East Pierce Fire and Rescue, and Orting Valley Fire.

Graham Fire and Rescue thanked the responding units for their assistance with the fire, adding, “Tragedies like yesterday’s highlight the crucial importance of fire safety, prevention, and awareness of how quickly fires can spread during this time of year. They also emphasize the necessity of having enough firefighters on the scene.”

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