News release
Suspicious fire destroys local church
December 22, 2025
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Burns Lake, British Columbia
From: Burns Lake RCMP
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On Saturday, December 20, 2025, shortly after 5:00 am, Burns Lake RCMP received a call from Burns Lake Fire/Rescue Department advising that the Island Gospel Church on Hwy 35 was fully engulfed in fire.
Upon police arrival, half of the large church was fully destroyed by fire while the other portion of the church received significant damage.
The fire was immediately considered suspicious and through investigation a suspect was identified and has been arrested. Many factors are being considered as police actively explore all possible avenues. A search warrant was executed as police continue to gather evidence.
“Burns Lake RCMP is utilizing significant local and support units to thoroughly investigate this incident, including the motive. Evidence collected at this stage of the investigation suggests this was an isolated incident and police believe there are no further risks perceived to the public” said Sgt Anthony Brooks, Operations NCO, Burns Lake RCMP.
The investigation is ongoing. Anyone with information in this matter is asked to call the Burns Lake RCMP at (250) 692-7171.
Contacts
District Advisory NCO (Media Relations)
BC RCMP North District
madonna.saunderson@rcmp-grc.gc.ca
250-561-3166