Fire investigators are once again returning to the scene Thursday, after a massive blaze destroyed numerous vehicles, damaged many more and forced the sudden evacuation of a Kelowna apartment building earlier Wednesday morning.
On November 14, 2018 at 4:20 am, RCMP were called to assist the Kelowna Fire Department who responded to a report of multiple motor vehicles engulfed in flames parked outside a building located in the 1900 block of Pandosy Street. Police assisted with the sudden evacuation of the multi-unit dwelling, which was being threatened by the fast spreading fire.
The fire which spread to a carport parking structure, caused radiant heat damage to as many as 11 motor vehicles and completely destroyed 9 others.
“Key video evidence has been gathered from a surveillance camera installed near the scene,” says Cpl. Jesse O’Donaghey, spokesperson for the Kelowna RCMP. “A full review of the footage has enabled police to deem the blaze an arson.”
GIS fire investigators are releasing a segment of the video to the public in hopes of advancing their investigation. The video clip shows an unknown individual riding a bicycle as he or she allegedly ignites the blaze. Police have reason to believe an accelerant was used by the suspect.
“RCMP ask all gas stations in the surrounding areas of this fire scene to conduct a review of their transactions in the hours leading up to the massive blaze,” states Cpl. Jesse O’Donaghey. “We are particularly interested in any smaller point of sale purchases, especially those to an individual or individuals who attended the store on foot or on bicycle.”
Anyone with anything that may be of interest to our investigators, is urged to contact Cst. Nathan Nickel of the Kelowna RCMP General Investigation Section at 250-470-6261. Or remain completely anonymous by calling Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or by leaving a tip online at www.crimestoppers.net.