"High winds drove a wildfire into an eastern Washington neighborhood, forcing the evacuation of about 1,500 people and destroying at least 15 homes, officials said Wednesday.
One person was reported missing by a family member but officials were unable to go into the fire zone to search for them because the conditions remained dangerous Wednesday afternoon, Spokane County Sheriff John Nowels said during a press conference.
“They have a location to look but it’s not safe to look there at the moment,” Nowels said.
Many people living in the densely populated neighborhoods had to flee on a moment’s notice — sometimes after an officer knocked on their door — leaving behind belongings and in some cases, critical medications, Nowels said. People were being escorted Wednesday by an officer to their homes one-by-one to access those essential needs, but then they were taken back out, Nowels said. "
Martha Bellisle reports for the Associated Press June 17, 2026.
SEE ALSO:
"Large Miami-Area Wildfire Causing Far-Reaching Smoke" (USA TODAY)
"Governor Declares State Of Emergency As Wildfires Threaten Central Oregon" (KTVZ21)
