‘Heartbreaking’: 1 dead, 1 in hospital after house fire on Vancouver Island

An RCMP epaulette is seen in Edmonton, Wednesday, Feb. 5, 2025. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Jason Franson

One person is dead and another is in hospital with serious injuries after a house fire Sunday on southern Vancouver Island.

Police and firefighters were called to the blaze at the single-family home in Sooke, west of Victoria, at approximately 5:21 a.m.

One person was pronounced dead at the scene while a second person was transported to hospital and remained in care Monday, the Sooke RCMP said in a news release.

Police, firefighters and the B.C. Coroners Service are still investigating the circumstances of the fire.

“At this early stage of the investigation, there is no indication of criminality,” police said.

Cpl. Brett Urano of the B.C. RCMP referred to the incident as a “difficult and heartbreaking situation.”

“Our thoughts and sincere condolences are with the family, friends, and loved ones of the person who lost their life in this tragic incident,” he said in a statement.

“We recognize the impact it has on everyone affected.”

Anyone with information related to the investigation is asked to contact the Sooke RCMP at 250-642-5241.

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