KAMLOOPS — Flames sparked at a Brocklehurst school Thursday afternoon.
Thick, black smoke coming from Parkcrest Elementary could be seen from different areas of the city.
WATCH: (Video Credit: Contributed / Summit Helicopters)
WATCH: (Video Credit: CFJC Today / Dylana Milobar)
WATCH: (Video Credit: CFJC Today / Kent Simmonds)
According to Kamloops Fire Rescue Asst. Chief Robb Schoular, 25 members are on scene and fighting the fire defensively.
School District 73 Assistant Supt. for elementary schools Rob Schoen says information is limited at this time.
“There were custodians in the building when it happened, the alarms went off when the fire began and everyone exited safely, so as much as this is an incredibly tragic and devastating event, there has been no injuries as confirmed by the fire chief.”
Schoen says district officials are meeting immediately to come up with a plan for Parkcrest students.
“We are looking at the fire, and the smoke, and this is not going to be a short term solution that we’re going to be looking for, we need a long term solution so I don’t have any specifics but I can tell you we are going to begin that process immediately,” Schoen says.
In a statement, the District says until further notice, Parkcrest Elementary School will not be open to students.
Families are being asked to make alternate arrangements for the supervision of their children beginning Friday Sept. 6, and for the following week- Sept. 9 – 13.
Staff are developing a plan to ensure the emotional well-being and education of students impacted.
The district will reach out to parents directly for further information.
Image Credit: CFJC Today / Kent SimmondsWATCH: CFJC Today report from on scene-
