Richland homes evacuated as brush fire burns along interstate in Tri-Cities

Brush fires that sparked along the eastbound lanes of Interstate 182 in south Richland led to the evacuation of several homes in the area of Jason Loop between Keene Road and the interstate Saturday night.

One building, possibly a shop, was burned, but flames did not reach any homes, according to initial information. There were reports to 911 of fences burned.

The cause of the fires was unknown as of late Saturday night and Richland officials had released no updated information as of midday Sunday. Initial reports that a car rollover caused the fire was reportedly incorrect.

Several crashes caused by distracted driving, including a rollover, were reported in the area as the fire burned.

The fire was reported just before 9 p.m. at the Queensgate westbound ramp of the interstate. A large plume of smoke could be seen shortly after that from miles away.

Queensgate Drive south of 182 to Keene Road was closed to traffic as firefighters worked.

This story was originally published August 14, 2022 at 11:55 AM.