Portland Apartment Fire: Smoker Injured in Blaze He Caused

A fire at Harrison Tower Apartments in downtown Portland sent smoke pouring into the sky that was visible to people throughout the city. Dozens of firefighters and police officers are on the scene.

The fire was started in a 1,000-square-foot, third floor condo in the 22-story high rise, according to Portland Fire and Rescue. The apartment tower is on SW 1st Avenue between Harrison Street and Market Street.

One man was taken to Oregon Health and Sciences University Hospital. He lived in the apartment where the fire happened. Portland Fire said the cause was careless smoking. His injuries were not considered life threatening.

Traffic in the area is shut down and people are urged to avoid the area.

The blaze broke out just after 8:00 Wednesday morning. By 8:30, there were nearly 40 units assigned to the fire. It was under control before 8:45.

There was significant smoke damage on the third floor.

Residents took to Twitter to share their view of the smoke.

Above image via Jeff Raetz

See photos of the fire below: