Investigating the Fish Creek Fire

The City has declared the recent fire in Fish Creek will be thoroughly investigated as the suspected cause of the blaze was human.

Supplied photo

A Fire started around the Fish Creek Community Forest on Thursday May 1, shortly after 3pm, which eventually moved northeast in the direction of Cecil Lake.

The firefighting response was originally led by the Fort St. John Fire Department who received assistance from the District of Taylor Fire and Charlie Lake Fire Departments as well as North Peace Regional Airport and BC Wildfire Services.

According to the media release, a tactical evacuation was carried out during the first 5 hours of the fire by the local RCMP which included around 19 residences which happened to be in close proximity to the wildfire.

The evacuation officially ended on May 2, while those who were in need of supports were assisted at the Fort St. John ESS Reception Centre and provided with accommodation and food for one day.

The fire is being held at 56 Hectares according to the BC Wildfire Map on May 4, with minimal fire behavior and very little activity observed along the perimeter.

Crews are actively patrolling and targeting hot spots while smoke still remains visible in the southern sections.

BC Wildfire continues to suspect humans caused this fire, although the investigation is still in its early phases. Human caused fires can be intentional or unintentional, and the cause of this fire has yet to be determined.

Our readers are reminded to stay away from the Fish Creek area until the end of the fire suppression operations, ensuring the safety of the public and personnel.

Anyone with video footage or information regarding this incident is encouraged to contact lead investigator Constable Shaun Wagantall at 250-787-8100.