Aftermath of major Vernon fire: crews on scene, suspicious cause

Firefighters remain on the scene of a fire that has destroyed at least five businesses in downtown Vernon.

Fire crews are spraying water on the building in the 2800 block of 30th Street where the Okanagan Eatery, Eunique Boutique, a pawn shop, costume store and dog grooming business were among those likely left a total loss by a blaze that started around 2:30 a.m. Tuesday, July 4.

As of 9 a.m., machinery was on scene, knocking down walls, and roads in the vicinity remained blocked to traffic.

The fire did not appear to have spread to the Friendship Centre next door, but the centre and other neighbouring businesses may have suffered water or smoke damage.

Vernon Fire Rescue Services, through the City of Vernon, has confirmed only one structure with multiple units was involved.

“The roof of the structure that was involved with fire has collapsed, making it difficult for firefighters to attack the interior of the building,” Deputy Fire Chief Alan Hofsink stated.

“Heavy equipment is now being brought down to the site to assist with tearing down walls. This will help crews gain better access to the interior so they can attack hot spots. Crews will remain on scene for several more hours.”

Hofsink added “At this time, no injuries have been reported. The fire is suspected to be suspicious and Vernon North Okanagan RCMP is leading the investigation.”

BC Hydro was working to restore power in the alley nearby, with no estimated time for that work to be complete as of yet.

As of 10 a.m. 30th Street between 28th and 30th Avenues, 29th Street between 28th and 30th Avenues, and 28th Avenue between 29th and 30th Streets were all still closed to foot and vehicle traffic.

The fire caused heavy smoke to blow throughout the downtown core and area residents are advised to turn off their air conditioning units and close all windows until the smoke is clear.

Environment Canada, in collaboration with Interior Health. issued a Special Air Quality Statement for Vernon due to the particulate matter in the smoke at 10:46 a.m. Tuesday.

The weather agency said the conditions create a risk for people, especially those with chronic health conditions, pregnant women, infants and older adults.

It advised people limit their time outdoors and avoid strenuous activities until the conditions improve.

Vernon North Okanagan RCMP say were advised of a structure fire in the 2800 block of 30th Street around 2:20 a.m., and as of 10 a.m. officers remain on scene with Vernon Fire Rescue.

Police are investigating the cause, which the owner of the building Gary Butula and his family, have said may have involved street people.

“The investigation is in the early stages as police and fire investigators determine the cause,” said Cpl. Tania Finn, RCMP media relations officer.

While attending the scene, Vernon Matters met with Alex Pickell, a prep cook for the Okanagan Eatery.

“I was supposed to work at 5 a.m.” Pickell told Vernon Matters, adding he was informed of the fire at around 3:30 a.m.

“They let me know right away. I was just about ready to get up and get ready for work.”

Pickell, who has worked at the restaurant for about a year and a half, was not informed of the cause of the fire, but did speculate it could have been caused by a homeless person.

“We’ve had to kick quite a few [homeless people] out. It could have made them mad and they just decided to light the place on fire in spite,” Pickell said, though added he was not certain of the cause and also suggested it could have been an electrical fire.

He added the building was very old and that the owners and employees knew if a fire started “it would go up like a match stick.”

Pickell also said there was a tenant living in one of the adjacent buildings and he hoped he made it out alright.

A GoFundMe was launched for the Eatery just before 10 a.m. Tuesday. Within the first half hour nearly $2,500 had been donated in support of the family-run restaurant.

Related: Major fire in downtown Vernon