E-Bike Battery Explodes Into Massive Fireball Inside Oregon Home
Investigators said the blaze spread in seconds and displaced six people after a lithium-ion battery ignited while charging.
- An e-bike battery exploded inside a Troutdale home on East Historic Columbia River Highway on Thursday night, destroying the two-story wood-frame house and displacing six people, according to Gresham Fire.
- Kari Ann Peniche and Kelli Gasaway escaped the rapid fire, though Gasaway's cat, Pax, died in the blaze. Peniche described the explosion as "equivalent to someone launching a hand grenade into your front room."
- Shawn Durham, battalion chief with Gresham Fire, said the battery caused "an immediate reaction of the other battery cells in the area," generating extensive heat. This marks one of at least three lithium-ion battery fires the department has addressed since Oct. 1.
- The Oregon State Fire Marshal identified 649 incidents involving lithium-ion batteries statewide from 2020 through 2025, with incidents increasing 118% over that period—from 74 in 2020 to 161 in 2025.
- Fundraisers have been established to help Peniche, Gasaway, and their families recover after the fire. Residents are urged to follow manufacturer charging instructions carefully to prevent battery overheating and similar disasters.
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10 Articles
An ion-lithium battery of an electric bicycle exploded inside a house and caused a large-scale fire in Troutdale, U.S. state of Oregon, on Thursday (5). Security camera footage shows the moment the equipment starts to release smoke and, seconds later, explodes in a fireball, followed by other small explosions. According to CBS News, the six people who were on the property managed to escape without injuries, but lost all their belongings.
Oregon e-bike battery explosion sparks house fire
An e-bike battery began to smoke inside an Oregon home and within seconds, a fire swept through the living room. Emergency responders battled the blaze as flames burned the two-story wood-frame home. NBC News’ Andres Gutierrez has the story.
Caught on camera: E-bike battery explosion engulfs Troutdale home
Video shows an e-bike battery exploding while charging, torching a Troutdale home and displacing six. No hydrants slowed crews. One cat died. Fire officials warn lithium-ion incidents are surging statewide.
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