BBQ suspected of igniting west Pasco house, causing explosions and gutting attic

A dramatic fire in west Pasco sent a plume of black smoke above the Tri-Cities on Friday morning.

Flames were reported just before 10 a.m. at 5511 Robert Wayne Drive, south of Sandifur Parkway and Barbara McClintock STEM Elementary School.

The fire apparently spread from a barbecue on the back porch to the house, said Pasco Deputy Fire Chief Tim Harkins. Three occupants safely fled the home before the fire reached the second floor and attic.

Explosions were traced to propane and oxygen tanks, as well as gas tanks of cars on the property

The Pasco Fire Department and other responders reported minor difficulties reaching the scene when their path was blocked by drivers trying to see what was burning.

The intense heat from the burning 21-year-old house damaged the siding of a neighbor’s home.

The fire sent a column of thick black smoke that could be seen across the Tri-Cities until firefighters brought it under control. Crews were still on the scene at 11 a.m. assessing the situation.

The family was being helped by relatives in a nearby home.

This story was originally published June 27, 2025 at 11:16 AM.