On January 1st, just before 7:00 am, the Medford Fire-Rescue Department, Fire District 3 and the Medford Police Department were dispatched and responded to a structure fire. Upon arrival, first responders found a fully involved motorhome with extension to another motorhome and a nearby apartment complex it was parked next to on fire.
All of the occupants were determined to be evacuated. Crews were able to quickly bring the fire under control and minimized the damage to the triplex residence. Due to severe damage to the RVs and electrical infrastructure of the building, twelve occupants were displaced and received assistance from the American Red Cross. No civilian or firefighter injuries were reported.
A criminal investigation was conducted, led by Medford Police Detectives. The investigation determined people were living in both motorhomes, which were parked close to each other and just feet away from an apartment complex. The fire started from the motorhome parked closest to the apartment, which then spread to the other motorhome and then one of the three apartments.
Witnesses reported that the occupant of the motorhome where the fire started had fled the scene prior to the arrival of law enforcement. He was determined to be James Atto, 64 years old. Detectives and officers searched for Atto without success.
On January 2nd, 2019, just after midnight, Atto arrived at the Medford Police Department lobby on his own accord. He was interviewed and determined to have intentionally started the fire to his motorhome. The investigation continues as to the motive. He was lodged in jail for three counts of Arson 1st Degree, bail $60,000.
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