Residential fire spreads to timber — Fire officials say a blaze that began near a home in Hood River spread to surrounding timber and brush and forced the overnight evacuation of dozens of people staying at a lodge overlooking the Columbia River Gorge. The Hood River Sheriff’s Office says the fire was reported late Saturday near a residence. Crews helped about 120 people staying at the Westcliff Lodge evacuate the area. A first responder was treated for a leg injury but no one else was injured. The Oregon Department of Forestry said Sunday the fire is burning in a rugged area of cliffs making access difficult. The agency says helicopters will help drop waters in those steep areas. The fire has burned about 5 acres northwest of Hood River between Interstate 84 and the Columbia River. Railroad lines north of the fire were closed as a precaution.

Foster child’s death investigated — Springfield Police are investigating an 18-month-old boy’s death while in foster care. Police Lt. Scott McKee said the boy died Thursday. The boy was living with a foster family in Springfield at the time of his death. The Oregon Department of Human Services declined to comment on the case, citing privacy laws. An autopsy is planned.