CENTRAL POINT, Ore. (June 23, 2025) – Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) firefighters are investigating following 11 roadside fires that were reported along Table Rock Road outside of Central Point, three in the morning and eight in the evening of June 23. All fires have been extinguished at small sizes with the largest being half an acre.
Just after 11 a.m., Jackson County Fire District 3 and ODF Southwest Oregon District firefighters were dispatched to a report of fire along the 13000-block of Table Rock Road near the intersection of Highway 234. Upon arrival, two additional fires were located in the area. An aggressive initial attack from both agencies resulted in all three fires being quickly extinguished, the largest at half an acre. A preliminary investigation found all three fires to likely be vehicle-related.
Around 6:30 p.m., a new fire in the same area was reported. Both agencies responded once again and found eight small fires between the 11000 and 13000 blocks of Table Rock Road. All eight fires were stopped at 1/10th of an acre or less.
Following a continued investigation, the cause of the fires has been determined to be vehicle-related and all fires remain under investigation. Investigators have ruled out chip sealing conducted by Jackson County Roads in the area as a potential cause at this time.
Vehicle-related fires are common along roadways, especially in areas with dry grass. Fire causes related to cars include faulty catalytic converters; when not maintained, sparks and metal pieces can shoot out tailpipes and ignite dry vegetation near the roadway. Another common car-related fire cause is tow chains dragging on the road. If chains aren’t properly secured, they can hit the pavement and throw sparks into dry grass. Additionally, off-roading in areas of dry vegetation or even parking a hot car over dry grass can cause a fire.
Help prevent human-caused fires this summer by keeping these common vehicle-related fire causes in mind and mitigate risks where possible: ensure your car is regularly serviced by a mechanic, check tow chains and ensure they’re secure, and park in areas clear of dry vegetation.
During fire season, ODF regulates activities that commonly cause wildfires. By following local regulations, fires can be prevented. A complete list is available here: https://swofire.com/public-fire-restrictions. For more fire information, visit our Facebook page, @ODFSouthwest or our website, www.swofire.com.