Woman Charged in Elephants Deli Fire Was Trying to Stay Warm

Caherine Elaine Stough, 56, faces charges after accidentally starting blaze at Portland location.

Mar. 13, 2026 at 8:04pm

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A 56-year-old woman has been arrested and charged with reckless burning and second-degree criminal mischief after accidentally starting a fire at the flagship location of Elephants Delicatessen in Northwest Portland. Caherine Elaine Stough said she was using a torch lighter to look for food in a bin, and the fire quickly spread, causing damage to the deli.

Why it matters

The incident highlights the challenges of homelessness and food insecurity in Portland, where some individuals may resort to dangerous measures to stay warm and find sustenance. It also raises questions about how the city can better support vulnerable populations and prevent similar accidental fires in the future.

The details

According to authorities, Stough was searching for food in a bin outside the Elephants Delicatessen location when the torch lighter she was using ignited nearby materials, quickly spreading the fire. Stough said she "felt really bad" about the incident, which caused an estimated $50,000 in damage to the deli.

  • The fire occurred on March 13, 2026.

The players

Caherine Elaine Stough

A 56-year-old woman who was arrested and charged with reckless burning and second-degree criminal mischief after accidentally starting a fire at Elephants Delicatessen in Portland.

Elephants Delicatessen

A popular deli and catering company with a flagship location in Northwest Portland that was damaged by the fire.

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What they’re saying

“I feel really bad”

— Caherine Elaine Stough

What’s next

The judge will determine Stough's bail and whether she will be released pending further legal proceedings.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the need for greater support and resources for homeless and food-insecure individuals in Portland, as well as the importance of fire safety education to prevent similar accidental blazes in the future.