Three Recovered in Fatal Skagit County Fire; Authorities Seek Person of Interest

The aftermathPhoto byMount Vernon Police

CONCRETE, WASHINGTON — August 14, 2024: Authorities continue to investigate a deadly fire that erupted on Friday, August 9, 2024, in the 15000 block of SR WA-530, claiming the lives of three individuals. The fire, which decimated a two-story residence and nearby structures, has posed significant challenges for investigators due to the extensive damage.

The Skagit County Coroner’s Office has recovered the three victims, who are now undergoing forensic examination. Authorities expect the examination to be completed later this week, after which the identities and causes of death will be released, pending notification of the victims' next of kin.

The investigation, led by the Mount Vernon Police Department, is being supported by multiple agencies, including the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), the Skagit County Fire Marshall, the Snohomish County Fire Marshall, and the Sedro-Woolley Fire Department. Due to the collapsed structure and the expansive, heavily wooded 4.5-acre property, recovery efforts have been arduous.

In a key development, investigators believe a fourth individual may have been at the residence shortly before the fire. Authorities are actively seeking Jason M. Birman, 49, who is considered a person of interest. Birman, who is known to frequent Skagit and Whatcom counties and is an avid off-roader, has not been seen since the fire.

Officially Released Images of Birman and truckPhoto bySkagit Breaking

Additionally, Birman’s vehicle, a blue 1994 Chevrolet pickup truck with WS: C67636L, remains unaccounted for. Law enforcement officials urge anyone with information on Birman’s whereabouts or the location of his vehicle to contact them immediately.

The search has extended beyond the immediate vicinity of the fire. The Skagit County Search and Rescue team has conducted a thorough search of the property, while aerial reconnaissance of the surrounding areas was carried out by the U.S. Customs and Border Patrol’s Aviation Branch.

The fire was initially reported at approximately 10:24 a.m. on August 9, 2024. Responding deputies from the Skagit County Sheriff’s Office quickly realized the potential conflict of interest, as the property owner was a contract employee of Skagit County. As a result, the Mount Vernon Police Department assumed primary responsibility for the investigation.

Authorities are appealing to the public for any information that could assist in the investigation. Individuals with relevant information are encouraged to contact the 24-hour dispatch line or the Police Department.

Bellingham Metro News will continue to monitor this developing story and provide updates as more information becomes available.