Fire breaks out at Hale's Restaurant in Hillsboro

A commercial fire was brought under control early this morning after a Hillsboro restaurant ignited in flames.

Just after midnight Monday, Aug. 26, Hillsboro firefighters responded to a blaze at Hale's Restaurant & Lounge, located at 2755 S.E. Tualatin Valley Highway.

A caller reported visible flames, smoke and embers emerging from the back window of the restaurant.

According to authorities, the first arriving ambulance noted a large smoke column billowing from the building; seconds later, responders saw heavy fire on the second floor.

The blaze was immediately upgraded to a second-alarm fire, bringing additional crews and resources to help.

Responding engine crews began extinguishing efforts while searching for possible occupants in the building. At the same time, firefighters accessed the roof and were ready to ventilate the building.

Crews contained the flames to one room on the second floor of the structure; no injuries were reported.

The cause of the fire remains undetermined, and the investigation is ongoing.

Hillsboro firefighters were assisted by Tualatin Valley Fire & Rescue, Cornelius Fire Department, Hillsboro Police, AMR Ambulance, NW Natural and Portland General Electric during the response.