Just after 10:30 a.m. , Friday, February 7, 2025, Everett Fire, with the assistance of South County Fire and Mukilteo Fire Department, responded to a report of an RV fire in the 11100 block of Paine Field Way. Callers to 911 reported smoke and flames from the motorhome with one person inside.
Before the fire department arrived, a crew with Snohomish County PUD happened to be in the area for an unrelated job when they noticed the RV fire. Two heroic PUD employees reached into the burning RV to rescue the victim.
South County Fire’s Engine 11 was the first unit on scene and found a fully involved RV fire, with an unresponsive adult female patient outside of the motorhome. They also learned that a second person may be in the motorhome. Firefighters and EMS personnel immediately began performing CPR and administering life-saving measures while other fire crews worked to extinguish the fire and search for the second victim.
It appeared that the occupants had been living in the RV, which presented significant challenges for the firefighters due to the excessive personal belongings cluttering the inside. As they navigated through hoarding conditions, they found an adult male inside the RV. Fire crews immediately began CPR and attempted life-saving measures, but unfortunately, the man was pronounced deceased at the scene.
Two PUD workers were evaluated at the scene for smoke inhalation but were not transported to the hospital.
Firefighters had the fire extinguished within five minutes of the first unit arriving.
The surviving victim was transported to Harborview Hospital in critical condition by Everett Fire Aid 6 and South County Fire Medic 11.
The cause and origin of the fire are under investigation by the Everett Fire Marshal’s Office. The Everett Police Department is handling the death investigation, which is standard procedure.
The preliminary investigation does not lead investigators to believe any criminal activity is involved with the cause of this fire.
The Snohomish County Medical Examiner’s Office has taken custody of the deceased victim to determine the cause and manner of death and establish identity.
Paine Field Way between 112th St SW and 111th Pl SW was closed for several hours while the investigation was underway.
Living in an RV with hoarding conditions significantly increases the risk of fire due to blocked escape routes, excessive combustible materials, and potential damage to electrical wiring. It is crucial to prioritize fire safety by keeping combustibles away from heat sources, keeping exits clear, regularly checking electrical systems, and having a well-defined escape plan. Additionally, you should always have working smoke alarms and carbon monoxide alarms to further enhance safety.
Whether you live in an RV or a home, hoarding can severely impede emergency responders’ ability to assist in critical situations and pose significant risks to the occupants’ safety. Taking these precautions can help protect your life and property.
We extend our heartfelt sympathies to all those affected by this tragic incident.