WASHINGTON TERRACE, Utah – A Washington Terrace fire that tragically killed an 87-year-old man this past summer was accidentally sparked by railroad maintenance crews clearing vegetation, according to an investigation report from the Utah Division of Forestry, Fire and State Lands (FFSL). The July 27 blaze, known as the Adams Fire, was not caused by a passing train as initially considered, but by Union Pacific crews working along the railroad corridor.
Investigators with the FFSL confirmed in their report that the exact cause of the fire was a "brush-hot style cutting attachment" that struck metal hardware. This impact created sparks that then ignited dry grass nearby. The incident led to severe consequences for residents in the area, particularly for Cecil "Ted" Burrell. Burrell, who was 87, was initially transported to the hospital with injuries believed to be minor. However, his condition was later determined to be more severe, and he died that same night at the hospital.
Beyond the tragic loss of life, the Adams Fire caused significant damage across the community. The fire burned a total of 72 acres and damaged multiple homes before firefighters were able to extinguish it. Additionally, a Weber County sheriff's deputy sustained injuries while responding to the incident.
The FFSL report detailed aspects of the Union Pacific crew's operation preceding the fire. A supervisor had reportedly warned the crew against cutting too deep along the railroad line, specifically noting the risk that metal parts could create sparks capable of igniting nearby brush. During the maintenance operation, an operator became entangled in hidden cables. After work resumed, a witness claimed to have seen smoke. Despite immediate attempts by the crew to extinguish the nascent blaze, they were unable to stop its rapid spread.
Weather conditions on July 27 played a significant role in the fire's rapid expansion. The report referenced high temperatures, low humidity, and strong winds as contributing factors that allowed the Adams Fire to spread quickly across the area.
In response to the FFSL's findings, Union Pacific issued a statement. The company indicated it was "aware of the state fire officials’ report" and was reviewing its findings. Union Pacific also stated that it had "fully cooperated with the state fire officials during their investigation" and extended its "deepest sympathies to those impacted by the fire."
Following the fire, Scott Tomlinson, a neighbor of Mr. Burrell, described him as a kind individual who generally kept to himself. Tomlinson reflected on the personal impact of the tragedy, stating that while "structures you can rebuild… but life, you can’t rebuild." The investigation's conclusion provides clarity on the origins of a fire that left a lasting impact on the Washington Terrace community.