Following a devastating fire that occurred on Boxing Day at a hotel in Nanaimo, authorities are actively investigating the cause behind the incident.
The emergency unfolded at the Value Lodge Motel situated on Nicol Street close to Woodhouse Street in the early hours of December 26. Firefighters swiftly responded to the scene after 3 a.m.
Nanaimo’s Assistant Fire Chief, Troy Libbus, shared that the fire forced 40 individuals out of their homes, leaving some in urgent need of alternative housing solutions. Despite the challenges, emergency accommodations have been arranged to support those affected.
Libbus expressed, “This incident resulted in the largest number of evacuees we’ve seen in a few years.” The fire posed a significant challenge to firefighting crews, who worked relentlessly on the scene through the weekend and into Sunday.
Describing the intensity of the situation, Libbus recounted, “Upon arrival, the Fire Rescue team encountered intense flames engulfing multiple units, with the roof also being heavily impacted. The scale of the fire’s impact and destruction is extensive.”
Fortunately, the majority of the eight individuals taken to the hospital for smoke inhalation have been discharged. Libbus mentioned, “While there is unconfirmed information about one individual still under medical care, the rest were able to return home within a day or shortly after.”
Regrettably, the motel sustained severe damage due to the fire and has been forced to close indefinitely.
BC Emergency Health Services initially reported that seven individuals had been transported to the hospital.
Keyphrase: Nanaimo hotel fire