“The Kamloops fire department and BC Wildfire Service did an amazing job extinguishing the fire quickly and preventing it from spreading further,” said Pelley. “The origin of the fire has been established as a campfire and we’re now conducting a criminal investigation.”

While Kamloops Fire Rescue personnel remained on scene throughout the afternoon dousing hot spots, RCMP investigators are looking for evidence and taking statements from witnesses.

Pelley notes a camp had recently been set up in the area and police would like to speak with anyone associated with that camp or anyone with information on how the blaze might have started or who may have started it.

Anyone with further information is asked to contact Kamloops RCMP at (250) 828-3000 and refer to file number 2023-13341.

Image Credit: CFJC Today / Kent Simmonds