Arson ruled out as cause of Kamloops elementary school fire

KAMLOOPS – RCMP have determined the cause of a Kamloops elementary school fire was not due to criminal activity.

In a media release issued today, Sept. 10, police say they have released care and control of the Parkcrest Elementary school fire scene back to the Kamloops-Thompson school district and to associated insurance agents.

“A very thorough scene investigation was completed. This involved the use of heavy equipment contractors and was complimented by assistance from Kamloops Fire Rescue investigators. Information provided by witnesses, fire suppression crews and a combination of physical evidence and known circumstances, led Police Fire Investigators to a ruling that the fire’s origin is not suspicious in nature,” Kamloops RCMP Sgt. Brandon Buliziuk said in the release.

The fire ignited at the elementary school on Thursday, Sept. 5, just after 5 p.m. 

“This matter is a tragedy and affects many in our community; however, we are pleased to report that this tragedy was not one caused by the intentional actions of any individual(s). We wish the children and families affected by this fire the absolute best in their likely difficult transition and adaptation to new educational circumstances,” Buliziuk says.

The exact cause of the fire is still under investigation whether it be mechanical or electrical. Civil authorities and corporations will continue to investigate on their own accord, police say.

To contact a reporter for this story, email Karen Edwards or call (250) 819-3723 or email the editor. You can also submit photos, videos or news tips to the newsroom and be entered to win a monthly prize draw.

We welcome your comments and opinions on our stories but play nice. We won't censor or delete comments unless they contain off-topic statements or links, unnecessary vulgarity, false facts, spam or obviously fake profiles. If you have any concerns about what you see in comments, email the editor in the link above.