UPDATE: MAY 24 6 A.M.
A Rutland home has been lost to a fire of unknown origin that started late Wednesday night.
Scott Clarke, Kelowna Fire Department platoon captain, said the first arriving crew to the split-level house on Rutland Road South found, the property was already engulfed with fire on two sides, extending into the attic.
“Crews were not initially able to enter the structure due to extreme fire conditions. Crews later attempted to enter but were pulled out due to roof failure,” said Clarke.
All occupants escaped the fire with no injuries and are being supported by Emergency Social Services.
RCMP and Kelowna Fire Investigators are investigating the cause of the fire.
Four Engines, a rescue unit, a safety vehicle, a command vehicle and a Deputy Chief including 24 personnel responded to this incident.
MAY 23 10 P.M.
Flames from a Rutland building fire are visible from a block away, and smoke is engulfing the neighbourhood as crews work to douse a blaze that started just before 10 p.m. Wednesday night.
The fire is believed to have started in a carport at 240 Rutland Road South, near the Salvation Army building, and traffic on surrounding roads has been stopped.
RCMP who are rerouting traffic have said there is concern about propane tanks in the building on fire.
A witness on scene says that the smell of smoke is intense, and there are lots of “popping sounds.”
More to come.
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