Gresham firefighter Spencer Tejedas to return to work after 10-month recovery

PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) – It’s been nearly a year since Gresham firefighter Spencer Tejedas was badly burned during a duplex fire in late May 2024. Now he’s ready to get back to work.

Tejedas is expected to be welcomed back by his crew during a Monday morning celebration at the Gresham Fire Training Center. There, he will begin an administrative role mentoring new recruits at the training academy.

“Spencer’s return is nothing short of extraordinary,” Chief Derik Minard said. “His courage, perseverance, and dedication to this department and community are an inspiration to us all. We are incredibly proud to welcome him back.” 

The reunion comes after Tejedas spent months recovering at the Oregon Burn Center at Legacy Emanuel Medical Center due to the fire that broke out on SE 182nd Avenue and Madison Way. 

Firefighters at the scene had been told a child with disabilities was trapped inside a bedroom. However, when the three entered the duplex, the teen was safely outside the home.

Two of the injured firefighters were treated and released from Legacy Emanuel Medical Center, but officials said Tejedas suffered severe burns on more than 45% of his body.

Described as dedicated and driven, Tejedas has worked with Gresham Fire since November 2020. He is a father to two children with his wife, Melea Shewman.

In June 2024, Shewman told KOIN 6 News that her husband “likes a good challenge and has to be the best at everything, so he’s going to be the best at getting better.”

Stay with KOIN 6 News as we continue to follow Tejedas’ story.