Early Morning Blaze Destroys Iconic Red Bridge in Kamloops, Raising Suspicions
The iconic Red Bridge in Kamloops, a vital connection for locals and a symbol of the city's history, was tragically destroyed in the early hours of Thursday, September 19, 2024. The fire, which erupted between 3:00 and 3:15 a.m., has left the community reeling. By 4:15 a.m., the historic structure was completely engulfed in flames and had collapsed into the South Thompson River. This devastating event is now being treated as suspicious, particularly because it is the second fire at the bridge in just a few days.
Kamloops RCMP and Fire Rescue crews were immediately on the scene, responding to the blaze. Supt. Jeff Pelley of Kamloops RCMP confirmed that the investigation is underway and that fire officials are working closely with law enforcement to determine if criminal activity was involved. The public has been asked to stay clear of the area and to avoid several locations, including Pioneer Park, Riverside Park, and surrounding boat launches, while the debris is cleared and the investigation continues.
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This fire follows another small blaze on the bridge just two days earlier, on Tuesday, September 17. The structure, built in 1936, was temporarily closed due to the earlier fire, but the latest one has led to its complete destruction. Now, authorities are urging anyone who may have witnessed anything unusual or has relevant dashcam footage from the area to come forward, as they are piecing together the timeline of events.
The fire could be seen from across downtown Kamloops, leaving residents shocked by the loss of the well-known landmark. The Red Bridge, which connected Mark Recchi Way and Athabasca Street West, was not only a functional piece of infrastructure but a part of Kamloops' historical landscape. DriveBC has advised drivers to use Highway 5 as an alternate route while the investigation is ongoing.
As the investigation unfolds, the community remains on edge, awaiting more information on whether this was an accident or a deliberate act. The loss of the Red Bridge has sparked conversations about safety, preservation, and the challenges of protecting historic landmarks in an ever-growing city.
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