A suspected arson fire leveled Burns Lake’s Island Gospel Church; police investigate as losses top $5M, with no injuries reported.
Early Morning Fire Engulfs Church
In the early hours of December 20, flames tore through the Island Gospel Church along Highway 35 in Burns Lake. Firefighters were called to the scene at 5 a.m., racing against time to contain the blaze.
Arson Suspected, Suspect in Custody
The Burns Lake RCMP quickly labeled the fire as suspicious. Following an intensive investigation, authorities identified and arrested a suspect. Multiple avenues are being explored as officers gather evidence, with a search warrant executed to uncover more details.
“Burns Lake RCMP is deploying significant local and support units to thoroughly investigate this incident, including the motive,” said Sgt. Anthony Brooks, Operations NCO. “Current evidence suggests this was an isolated event, and we believe there are no further risks to the public.”
Extensive Damage and Firefighting Efforts
Fire Chief Robert Krause confirmed that damage will exceed $5 million, though a precise estimate is still being calculated. Twenty firefighters battled the inferno for four hours, followed by additional hours spent on cleanup and securing the site. Thankfully, no injuries were reported.
Despite the devastation, the fire department managed to save the church’s auditorium and classroom, though both suffered smoke damage.
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