Electric blanket investigated as cause of Monroe fire that injured 1

An early-morning house fire in Monroe injured one person and shut down Chain Lake Road during the Wednesday morning commute.

At approximately 5:30 a.m., the fire was reported, and Snohomish Regional Fire & Rescue responded to the scene. The house sustained significant damage to its exterior and interior.

Officials investigating electric blanket used outdoors as possible cause of Monroe fire

One victim was transported to Harborview Medical Center and treated for smoke inhalation and cut injuries from broken glass.

Firefighters confirmed that the victim and resident of the home was hurt after re-entering the home, according to KIRO 7. A nearby neighbor allegedly aided the victim in escaping from the second floor by using a ladder.

Officials noted that an electric blanket used to keep cats warm outside is currently being investigated as the cause of the fire.

The fire reportedly originated from the back of the home, underneath a covered patio, where the homeowner had been using an electric blanket to keep stray cats warm.

A video of Snohomish firefighters battling the fire showed a firefighter on an aerial ladder above the home dousing the flames.

Monroe House Fire: One victim transported to HMC with smoke and cut injuries. House sustained significant damage. Electric blanket used outdoors to keep cats warm is being investigated as cause. SC Fire Marshal on scene. pic.twitter.com/nI6J4Ug6VU

— Snohomish Regional Fire & Rescue (@SnoRegionalFire) March 11, 2026

A Snohomish County Fire Marshal also responded to the scene.

The roadway was closed in both directions near Rainier View City Park due to the house fire, according to the Monroe Police Department (MPD).

MPD advised morning commuters using Chain Lake Road in the area to plan alternative routes and expect delays.

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