Four couches torched after WSU Apple Cup win

PULLMAN — First responders were kept busy Saturday night following the Apple Cup football game.

Pullman Fire Department Chief Mike Heston said four couch fires were reported Saturday night on Pullman’s College Hill. These happened hours after Washington State University defeated University of Washington in the annual Apple Cup football game.

While no one was hurt and no structures were damaged, Heston would like to remind the community about the dangers that the tradition poses.

There’s always a risk of fire spreading when lighting things ablaze, he said, especially during the beginning of fall when there is plenty of dry brush around that can ignite.

Burning is illegal within city limits, he said, along with littering, and both offenses could result in a ticket, Heston said.

The activity also takes away from Pullman’s emergency response, he said.

Incinerating living room furniture is not uncommon during the university’s football season.

Last week, a couch fire was also reported after WSU football’s victory against Texas Tech.

According to past Moscow-Pullman Daily News reporting, there have been reports of couches and mattresses set on fire in Pullman following Cougar football victories since at least 2016.

Pearce can be reached at epearce@dnews.com.