#UPDATE: Suspect Arrested in Connection to Recovery Center Fire

The Portland Police Bureau (PPB) has arrested a suspect in connection to a third-alarm fire that occurred on April 11, 2026, at the future site of a recovery center.

East Precinct officers arrested 42-year-old Darrell J. Smith in connection with the fire, which was previously determined to be an act of arson by the Portland Fire Investigations Unit (FIU), a joint team composed of personnel from PPB and Portland Fire & Rescue.

During the course of the investigation, FIU investigators identified three additional fires allegedly set by Smith on the same date. These incidents include two dumpster fires in the 100 block of Northeast 102nd Avenue and a fire involving burning cardboard near an occupied building in the 500 block of Northeast 99th Avenue.

In addition to the fire-related charges, investigators developed probable cause for a public indecency charge. Smith was reportedly observed engaging in inappropriate behavior in front of a business in the 200 block of Northeast 102nd Avenue.

At the time of his arrest, Smith had numerous outstanding misdemeanor warrants, including a Reckless Burning charge from January 2026.

The investigation remains ongoing. Anyone with additional information related to these incidents is encouraged to contact [email protected].

###PPB###

***Original Message Below***

PPB and PF&R Need Public's Help Identifying Person of Interest in Arson Case

The Portland Fire Investigations Unit (FIU), composed of personnel from the Portland Police Bureau and Portland Fire & Rescue, is asking for the public's help to identify and locate a person of interest in an arson case.

On Saturday, April 11, 2025, at approximately 10:45 p.m., first responders were dispatched to a fire in the 100 block of Northeast 100^th Avenue. The fire, at the future site of a recovery facility, grew to a third alarm response before firefighters were able to get it under control. Through investigative practices, FIU determined this fire to be an act of arson. At this time, investigators have no evidence to suggest the facility was specifically targeted.

Investigators are releasing an image of a person of interest in the case. He is believed to frequent the area of Northeast Glisan Street to East Burnside Street and Northeast 102nd Avenue to I-205.

Anyone who has information about the person of interest is asked to contact [email protected].

###PPB###