UPDATE: Fire response at 39th and Othello

7:48 AM: Thanks for the tips. SFD is just arriving at a house at 39th/Othello and reports they’re dealing with a fence and “debris” on fire in a back yard. The initial response was a full “fire in building” callout but now they’re downsizing.

7:55 AM: Correction, the fire’s at 39th and Othello [vicinity map]. Police and SFD’s investigator are responding to try to find out how the fire started, to see if it might have been set.

7:57 AM: Firefighters just told dispatch the fire is under control. This is in a residential neighborhood, so no notable traffic effects. (Photo added above.) SW Othello is blocked in the 3900 block.

WEDNESDAY AFTERNOON: SFD tells us the cause remains under investigation but they’re hoping to have more information tomorrow.

ADDED THURSDAY EVENING: SFD spokesperson David Cuerpo tells WSB, “Investigators ruled the fire as intentionally set (incendiary). They shared their findings with Seattle Police.”

John March 11, 2026 (12:35 pm)

Are the results of the SFD and SPD investigation ultimately published or available to the public? We live nearby, so are interested in the outcome. Thanks.

Neighbor March 11, 2026 (6:36 pm)

One morning a few summers ago while walking a dog I noticed a red hot smoldering patch in the planting strip in front of the home pictured on the left of the photo behind the fire truck. I asked the neighbor across the street who was working outside for help to put it out.

Othello Neighbor March 11, 2026 (9:42 pm)

Unfortunately this is not the first incident. Arson incidents on this and surrounding blocks have been ongoing since 2024. Neighbors are aware of who is setting them and have filed multiple police reports and at least one incident was charged and dismissed because of mental health evaluation/incompetence. Based on this morning’s incident where flames were leaping above the eaves of the house and near the utility pole it is an even bigger public safety concern. The fire department has been great, but haven’t seen much follow up by SPD. Hoping the larger community’s awareness of this issue can provide resolution and action, and the King County crisis line 988 and 911 can be used as resources.

Another Neighbor March 11, 2026 (11:26 pm)

We face danger at any time. The fire department is great and has put out numerous fires in the last year. The courts have their hands tied… our neighbor needs help while we deserve to be protected. This situation can no longer be dismissed.