Gresham Fire Department investigating after suspected arson in two buildings

PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) — The Gresham Fire Department is investigating suspected arson cases of two buildings, authorities said.

One of the fires was at the East Portland Moose Lodge and another was at a church adjacent to it on Northeast Halsey Street. Both buildings had two broken windows each, near the areas of the respective fires, set hours apart on Tuesday morning.

"In both instances, the fire investigator determined these incidents were the result of an intentionally set fire, and it is suspected these incidents may be related," the City of Gresham said in a press release. "Gresham Fire is working closely with the Gresham Police Department to investigate."

Just before 5 a.m., both Gresham Fire and Portland Fire and Rescue responded to the East Portland Moose Lodge after a fire alarm was activated. The fire was quickly extinguished. Then, just after 9:15 a.m., crews responded to the fire set at the church on Northeast Halsey Street. In both cases, a fire investigator assessed the scene.

Anyone with information about the fires is encouraged to contact the Gresham Fire Department.