Human remains found as Chelan Hills Fire continues to burn

DOUGLAS COUNTY — Authorities investigating the Chelan Hills Fire confirmed Monday that human remains were discovered inside a vehicle found in the burned area as firefighters continued battling a blaze that has now scorched nearly 10,000 acres.

Douglas County deputies located the vehicle Sunday while following up on a report of a missing resident who lived within the fire area. According to the Douglas County Sheriff's Office, the vehicle had left the roadway before being overtaken by the fire. Detectives responded to investigate the scene, and the remains were turned over to the Douglas County Coroner's Office for positive identification. The person's identity has not yet been released.

The Chelan Hills Fire was reported shortly after midnight July 4 near milepost 233 on U.S. Highway 97. Deputies assisted local fire districts with evacuation notices as the fire rapidly expanded, and state mobilization was approved later that morning.

The Southeast Washington Interagency Incident Management Team now estimates the fire at approximately 10,000 acres with no containment.

Fire officials said the blaze continues to burn actively through grass, brush, timber and agricultural fields while exhibiting wind-driven fire behavior and short-range spotting. Crews are using a combination of direct and indirect attack, scouting and constructing containment lines along the fire's northern edge while continuing to protect homes, critical infrastructure and other values at risk throughout the incident.

Officials said firefighters have begun assessing structures affected by the fire, although damage totals have not yet been released.

Authorities continue to urge the public to stay out of the fire area, citing hazardous road conditions and the large number of emergency responders, utility crews and firefighting resources working throughout the incident. Road closures and evacuation orders remain in effect.

Deputies will continue assisting fire personnel as crews search the burned area for any additional residents who may have been unable to evacuate safely.

Andrew Simpson: 509-433-7626 or andrew@ward.media