Multiple Storage Units Damaged by Fire

On the evening of June 5, the Lebanon Fire District responded to a multi-unit fire at Storage Depot on Highway 34.
According to LFD, which was on site until the following morning, it was hard to put the fire out due to multiple storage units in Row C being involved, as well as a limited water supply. The severity of the fire was to a third-alarm to bring in more help and equipment.
Two videos were shared via the LFD Facebook page; the most recent video showed a firefighter using power tools to cut open the door of a storage unit, revealing the flames inside. The earlier video depicted firefighters working to put out the flames inside units with smoke billowing into the air.
Representatives of Special Olympics Oregon – Linn County said their unit at the facility, which contained the majority of their equipment, is being considered a “total loss.” They plan to continue practices and regional competitions as scheduled and will be taking donations in the future to replace the lost equipment.
LFD fought the fire overnight with help from several agencies, including the Albany Fire Department, Scio Fire District and Sweet Home Fire District, among others. Ultimately, it was necessary to bring in heavy equipment to assist in putting out the last of the fire in “deep seated areas” on the morning of June 6.
The LFD investigation team remained on site looking into the origin of the fire alongside Linn County Sheriff’s Office and the Oregon State Fire Marshal.
According to LCSO, Micah Schulte, 43, of Lebanon, called the fire in and admitted to causing the fire with a torch in his possession, which fell into furniture while using the torch to heat a concentrated marijuana product.
Schulte was taken into custody at Linn County Jail and charged with two misdemeanors, reckless burning and second degree criminal mischief.
LCSO deputies said that, though the exact cost of damage is not currently known, dozens of units were affected and there will be “significant” damage.
This fire follows recent fires that damaged an RV and an adult foster home.