Accident – Death – Obituary News :
Tragic Fire Claims Life of 71-Year-Old Man in Medford
A devastating fire broke out in the 2300 block of Howard Ave in Medford, Oregon, resulting in the loss of a life. The victim, 71-year-old Don Tersieff, was living in a two-story garage that also had living quarters in the upstairs area.
Intense Firefighting Efforts
First responders arrived at the scene within minutes of being dispatched, but faced significant challenges due to surrounding vehicles, nearby structures, and a substantial amount of stored material. Flames had already consumed the vehicle in front of the garage, making access difficult.
Despite the heavy fire and smoke conditions, firefighters were able to gain entry and eventually knock down the fire. Unfortunately, Tersieff did not survive the blaze.
Unauthorized Modifications
The structure had undergone several modifications over the years that were not approved by the city. Originally permitted as a garage in 2005, it had been converted into living quarters without updated permits and approvals. Additionally, the building lacked working smoke detectors, further complicating the situation.
Investigation Ongoing
Authorities are still working to determine the cause of the fire as crews continue to assess the damage. The Medford Fire Department expressed their condolences to the family of the victim and promised to provide updates as more information becomes available.
NewsWatch 12 is closely monitoring the situation and will provide additional details as they emerge.
Isabela Lund is the digital content manager at NewsWatch 12. You can reach her at ilund@kdrv.com.
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