CLARKSTON, WA — A fast-moving fire destroyed a home, garage, multiple vehicles, and outbuildings Tuesday evening in Clarkston, drawing a multi-agency response from across the Lewis-Clark Valley.

The blaze was reported around 5 p.m. in a neighborhood between Elm Street and Chestnut Street. When crews arrived, two structures were already engulfed in flames, and high winds were pushing the fire rapidly through dry grass.

“The first few minutes were critical,” said Asotin County Fire District #1 Chief Noel Hardin. “We were working hard to stop the fire’s forward progression.”

Hardin credited the combined response of fire departments throughout the valley with preventing the fire from spreading to additional homes, despite 100-degree temperatures.

Firefighters from Asotin County Fire District #1, the cities of Asotin and Clarkston, Wheatland Fire District, Nez Perce County, and Clearwater Paper responded to the scene. Smoke from the fire was visible throughout the valley.

Crews remained on scene for approximately five hours. At the same time, a second fire broke out on 2nd Avenue in the Clarkston Heights, further straining resources.

Hardin expressed gratitude for the strong teamwork displayed by all personnel. “I appreciate the great teamwork from all the firefighters and medics who answered the call,” he said.

No injuries were reported. The cause of the fire is under investigation.