Trespasser Sets Fire to Vacant House in Ashland and Suffers Severe Burn Injuries

By Lucille McNamara On Mar 30, 2026

ASHLAND, Ore. — A trespasser, armed with an ax, used accelerants to set a house on fire in Ashland on Saturday as SWAT Team members from the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office (JCSO) attempted to evacuate him from the vacant residence.

When Ashland Police Department (APD) officers arrived at 137 Church Street, they tried to persuade 41-year-old Fedish Llewellyn Ford to vacate the house.

Tidings Insight

A burglary charge can still apply at a vacant house. In Oregon, first degree burglary covers unlawful entry into a dwelling, or entry while armed or while threatening a dangerous weapon.

He refused, saying that he also had firearms and accelerants that he would use to set fire to the property.

APD contacted JCSO and members of the SWAT team.

In the meantime, APD applied for a search warrant because of the threat of explosives inside the property, posing a risk to the neighborhood.

Tidings Context

Search warrants let police enter and search property when a judge finds probable cause. In a barricade case involving reported explosives, that gives officers legal authority to search for weapons or hazardous materials.

When SWAT team members made contact with the trespasser, he used accelerants to set fire to the property. The blaze was quickly brought under control by Ashland Fire & Rescue, but severe damage was nevertheless caused to the house.

The trespasser sustained significant burn injuries and is currently undergoing treatment at a local hospital, where he is under police guard.

He will be lodged at the Jackson County Jail on his release from the hospital on charges of first-degree arson, first-degree burglary, first-degree mischief, and second-degree trespass.

Tidings Insight

In Oregon, first degree arson can apply when a fire damages protected property or recklessly puts people or protected property at risk. A major injury to others is not required.