After the Sweet Creek fire was first reported Sunday, August 30th, Lane County Sheriff’s Office Detectives and Oregon State Police Detectives began an intense investigation into the origins of the now near 400 acre blaze. Together the two agencies contacted and interviewed several individuals as part of the investigation.
On Tuesday afternoon, September 1st, 44 year old Elias Newton Pendergrass of Mapleton was arrested for Arson in the first degree in connection with the Sweet Creek Fires shortly after 3:00pm as result of this investigation.
Overnight, firefighters on the Sweet Creek Milepost 2 Fire completed hand line around the perimeter of all burned areas. The fire is now fully lined. They also continued putting in hose lays to bring water to the fire. Fire behavior was moderate, though the fire did grow outside the lines in two small areas. These were quickly controlled and new line has been established around them.
Crews continued Tuesday to secure lines by putting in hose lays to cool hot spots along the perimeter while also remaining alert to any spots across the lines. Heavy equipment continues to be used to strengthen lines and open roads for access. Aircraft made water drops to cool hot spots and remained available to quickly address spot fires.
Tuesday also marked a change in the weather pattern across Oregon, with building high pressure expected to bring higher temperatures, lower relative humidity, and the potential for gusty winds. These conditions, combined with extremely dry fuels, will test fire lines over the next few days. Steep terrain also increases the likelihood of quick runs should spot fires emerge.
While containment is now estimated to be 15% as of late Tuesday night, it is expected to increase as crews strengthen existing lines and begin to mop up hot spots inside the fire perimeter.
Level 3 evacuations remain in place on Hadsall Creek with level 2 evacuation notices remain for Sweet Creek Rd and level 1 notifications are in effect for the Bernhardt Creek Rd. and Duncan Island Road areas.
COVID-19 protocols are also in effect and these management practices include proper distancing and minimizing physical interactions within the community. To maintain these standards, the fire can no longer accept donations of food or other supplies from the community.
