Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Public Safety topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Police and fire commanders report limited July 4 fireworks incidents; one garage fire prompted Red Cross support
Summary
West Richland police and fire officials reported dozens of fireworks complaints around July 4, several verified late‑night reports and a small number of fire incidents (including a garage fire that caused property damage and Red Cross assistance); no large structure losses were reported.
West Richland Police Department and the regional fire liaison summarized calls for service related to fireworks between June 28 and July 5. Commander Coats reported that from June 28 through July 5 the department logged multiple complaints, with 18 complaints on July 4 and several verified callers reporting late‑night discharges.
"On July 4, there was a total of 18 complaints received...Of the 4 verified callers, 2 complaints received were after the midnight cutoff. The latest 1 was at, midnight 45, so 12:45 in the morning," Commander Coats said. Officers investigated nuisance and debris complaints; one yard fire and one residential garage fire were reported. The garage fire caused some damage and Red Cross was called to assist the affected residents; no injuries were reported. Staff said the Red Mountain Event Center fireworks show concluded without incident and did not require a police response.
Officials shared regional comparison numbers for context: West Richland had 52 regional agency fireworks calls in the reporting period while Kennewick, Pasco and Richland logged higher counts. Code enforcement and public works handled debris cleanup; no missing animals were reported and the city made kennel space available to take in animals if needed.
