Polson car fire spreads to other vehicles

At approximately 4 a.m. July 5, the City of Polson Fire Department was dispatched to a vehicle fire near the intersection of Division St. and First St. E.

A crew was staffing the city fire station at the time of the call and responded immediately. While en route, dispatch advised that the incident had been upgraded to a fully involved vehicle fire with potential exposure to nearby property.

The first engine was on scene within four minutes and reported that multiple vehicles were involved. Polson Rural Fire District was also dispatched to lend additional resources.

Firefighters worked quickly to contain the fire, and brought it under control within eight minutes of their arrival, which prevented it from spreading further.

Preliminary damage estimates indicate three vehicles are considered total losses, two additional vehicles sustained minor fire damage, and one well-loved tree was significantly damaged by the fire.

Investigators have ruled out fireworks as the cause of the fire, but say the incident remains under investigation and is being treated as suspicious.

In a press release, the City of Polson Fire Department expressed appreciation to department volunteers, Lake County Dispatch, Lake County Sheriff’s Office, Polson Police Department, Polson Ambulance and Polson Rural Fire Protection District “for their professionalism, teamwork, and assistance during this incident.”

Anyone who may have witnessed suspicious activity in the area before the fire or who has surveillance or doorbell camera footage is encouraged to contact the Polson Police Department at 406-883-8210.