Deadly Lytton wildfire suspected to be human-caused

LYTTON (NEWS 1130) — Challenging winds further hampered firefighting efforts Sunday night in the Lytton Creek Wildfire. The blaze is being blamed for the deaths of two people, and the displacement of 1,000 others from their homes and businesses.

At this time, the fire is believed to be human-caused but exactly how has yet to be determined, according to the BC Wildfire Service.

“It is suspected to be human-caused but that can be a number of reasons other than lightning basically,” Fire Information Officer Forrest Tower said, noting that the complexity of this fire will likely mean the investigation into the exact cause will take awhile.

Over the weekend, Mounties were able to gain access to parts of the village. They are working with the BC Wildfire Service on the investigation. The BC RCMP is asking for patience as investigators they look into the cause.

There is speculation the fire may have been started by a train, but Dawn Roberts with the BC RCMP says it’s too early to jump to any conclusions.

In a statement to NEWS 1130, CN Rail says it’s assisting authorities with the investigation.

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Many were forced to flee with only a few minutes notice, and have been out of their homes since June 30, with no timeline as to when they can return to the village to see the extent of the damage. Many don’t know if they have a home to return to at all.

Tower says although it is a top priority for residents to be able to return, at this time it’s still too dangerous, as along with structures, critical infrastructure was damaged as well.

“[There were] downed power lines that were compromised, and buildings that have been so damaged that there is unsafe air quality potentially. There is a lot of consideration before allowing the public back,” he said.

He adds that several agencies are involved and working around the clock to ensure people can return as quickly as possible.

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The BC Wildfire Service says there has been recent growth overnight of about 200-hectares, caused by the weather, which remains the biggest concern for crews.

“It can get pretty windy here, if we do experience continued high winds it’s obviously challenging for fire suppression efforts,” he said.

NEWS 1130 Meteorologist Michael Kuss says wind and storms will be a concern for many parts of the province through to Tuesday.

“A trough of low pressure is tracking across central B.C. and that has a potential to trigger active weather with lightning strikes. We are watching out for that for central, southern parts of the Interior and then off to Alberta too,” he said, adding the winds will shift over the next 24 hours from east to west, which may impact or spread more fires.

Lytton’s wildfire fight will be getting some assistance from other provinces starting Monday.

The new crew members include 13 support staff and 80 firefighters.