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RCMP ask for public’s help to determine cause of weekend fire

RCMP are investigating the cause of the South Island Concrete fire
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The the weekend fire in Sooke raised concerns about the chemical makeup of the smoke. (Sooke RCMP)

The Sooke RCMP has appealed to anyone who has information about the weekend fire at South Island Concrete in Sooke to come forward as soon as possible.

They have asked that anyone who was in the area or who might have taken any video or photographs of the fire (particularly in its early stages) to contact the RCMP contact the Sooke RCMP at 250-642-5241 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.

An RCMP Fire Investigator has been called in to assist in determining the cause of the fire.

The fire was dramatic and the smoke could be seen from across Sooke. It prompted the Sooke Fire Department to call in assistance from the Metchosin, East Sooke and Otter Point fire crews for mutual aid.

Sooke RCMP blocked off traffic to Edward Milne Road.

No one was hurt during the Sunday night fire that destroyed the South Island Concrete building as well as a collection of equipment that included forklifts and bobcats, but the fire raised concerns about the toxic nature of the smoke.

“There are unknown chemicals, hydraulic oil and acids and dyes for concrete forming,” explained Sooke Fire Chief, Ken Mount.

He added that the extent of the fire and a number of small explosions made the operation a defensive one for fire crews.

Bruce Barlow, the President of South Island Concrete Products Ltd., refused to speak to the Sooke News Mirror, stating that he had nothing to say on the matter.



mailto:tim.collins@sookenewsmirror.com

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RCMP are now investigating the cause of the weekend fire at South Island Concrete.Facebook/Erin Wolanski Boyle) RCMP are now investigating the cause of the weekend fire at South Island Concrete. (Facebook/Erin Wolanski Boyle)