In Other News

BNSF dock fire, Touch-A-Truck, Sandblaster golf tourney.

Updated May 12, 2026

Fire scorches BNSF equipment dock

EPHRATA — Authorities received multiple reports shortly before midnight Sunday (May 10) of a large outdoor fire just east of the Amtrak station in downtown Ephrata.

Police arriving on scene in the first block of A Street N.E. found flames engulfing a dock structure of wooden timbers laden with rail components on Burlington-Northern Santa Fe Railway property.

Officers notified BNSF dispatchers to temporarily stop train travel in the area, according to the report. Crews from the Ephrata Fire Department and Grant County Fire District 13 arrived and extinguished the blaze.

Police located a 49-year-old Moses Lake man who admitted he was trying to “have a small fire,” but did not specify why. The man, who name was not disclosed, sustained possible smoke inhalation but declined medical treatment.

It was not immediately determined whether the man faces any criminal charges or civil liability.

A fire reported late Sunday night charred wooden timbers and rail equipment near the Ephrata Amtrak station. Photo by Randy Bracht

'Touch-A-Truck' Saturday at Splash Zone

EPHRATA — The Ephrata Fire Department will host its popular annual “Touch-A-Truck” event on Saturday, May 16, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the Splash Zone parking lot.

The free family event offers kids of all ages a hands-on experience exploring law enforcement and emergency vehicles, construction trucks, buses, military rigs and more. They can also meet the people who build, protect, and serve the community, and enjoy other fun activities.

Kids of all ages can explore a variety of big rigs during the annual "Touch-A-Truck" event Saturday, May 16, at the Splash Zone pool parking lot in Ephrata. File photo

SL Sandblaster golf tourney on tap

SOAP LAKE — Registration is underway for the fourth annual Lava Links Sandblaster Open golf tournament on Saturday, May 16 in Soap Lake.

There will be prize drawings for “cool stuff,” a contest for most-creative golf attire, and a “just for fun” vibe at the Lava Links’ par-3 pitch-and-putt course, located across the street from Soap Lake City Hall. Sagebrush, sand, rocks, and vegetation await!

Golfers of all experience levels are welcome, but space is limited. Entry fees are $8 for individuals, $15 for couples, and $25 for a foursome. Participants should arrive by 8:30 a.m. Action will get underway at 9 a.m. with a shotgun start.

The event is sponsored by the Soap Lake Chamber of Commerce. Register online at SoapLakeCoC@gmail.com.

For information, email nels.c.borg@gmail.com.