July 6, 2026
Case #26D02987
Douglas County deputies respond to Chelan Hills Fire
At approximately 12:06 a.m. on July 4, 2026, Douglas County Deputies responded to a reported brush fire near mile marker 233 on U.S. Highway 97. Working in coordination with local fire districts, deputies assisted in delivering numerous evacuation notices to residents impacted by the fire. Deputies have continued to support fire personnel as the incident has grown in size and complexity. State mobilization was requested and approved for the fire at approximately 4:30 a.m. Firefighting efforts for what is now known as the Chelan Hills Fire are being managed by the SE Washington Type 3 Inter-Agency Team.
On July 5, 2026, deputies conducted follow-up on a report of a missing resident who lives in the affected fire area. Deputies located a vehicle that had slid off the roadway and was subsequently consumed by the fire. Human remains were discovered inside the vehicle, and the scene was investigated by Douglas County detectives. The remains have been turned over to the Douglas County Coroner’s Office, which will work to obtain a positive identification of the deceased.
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The Douglas County Sheriff’s Office will continue to work with fire personnel to check the affected area for any additional residents who were unable to safely evacuate. Further updates regarding the fire’s activity will be coordinated between our office and the fire management team.
Respectfully,
Tyler I. Caille, Sheriff
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Identification of victim in Chelan Hills Fire
On August 31, 2026, the Douglas County Coroner’s Office confirmed the positive identification of the deceased individual located within the burned vehicle found during evacuation efforts related to the Chelan Hills Fire on July 4, 2026. The victim has been identified as Robert M. Lister, a 69-year-old resident of Orondo, Washington. Mr. Lister’s family has been notified of this updated information.
The Chelan Hills Fire resulted in significant loss, widespread disruption, and long-term impacts to residents throughout the Chelan Hills and McNeil Canyon areas. The Douglas County Sheriff’s Office recognizes the ongoing hardships faced by community members and remains committed to providing accurate information as the investigation continues.
Detectives are continuing their comprehensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding the ignition of the fire and the events that led to Mr. Lister’s tragic death. As further information becomes available, updates will be released to the public. The Douglas County Sheriff’s Office appreciates the patience and cooperation of the community.
