Update on the Downtown Maple Ridge Fire Incident: Support, Investigation, and Road Closures
Update on the Downtown Maple Ridge Fire Incident: Support, Investigation, and Road Closures
The City of Maple Ridge is providing a comprehensive update on the recent fire incident that occurred in downtown Maple Ridge. The fire has had a significant impact on the community, causing damage to multiple buildings and displacing numerous residents. In this article, we will outline the response efforts, available support services, ongoing investigation, debris disposal, insurance claims, building access, and road closures.
Those who have not registered in person can contact the Canadian Red Cross's disaster assistance toll-free line at 1-888-800-6493 to notify them about the impact of the Maple Ridge fire. The Red Cross will connect callers with the appropriate Emergency Support Services (ESS) resources. The City is working closely with partner agencies to ensure that everyone affected receives the necessary support during this challenging time.
Maple Ridge Fire and Rescue Services promptly responded to the fire, which occurred just before midnight on Friday, June 9. The fire originated at a secured construction site on the 22500 block of Brown Avenue. The intensity of the blaze resulted in extensive damage to a neighboring apartment building and three adjacent single-family residences. Approximately 80 residential units, housing an estimated 200 residents, were affected. The fire response involved 50 firefighters and 12 apparatus, with additional support from the City of Pitt Meadows and City of Mission Fire Services.
Mayor Ruimy expressed gratitude for the quick action and dedication of the firefighters and mutual aid colleagues in bringing the intense fire under control. The City acknowledges the valuable assistance provided by Pitt Meadows and Mission Fire Services, Ridge Meadows RCMP, TransLink, BC Emergency Health Services, the Royal Canadian Legion, the Canadian Red Cross, and the Salvation Army during the response.
Immediate temporary shelter was provided at the Shipley's No Frills Maple Ridge grocery store and the Royal Canadian Legion. The Greg Moore Youth Centre served as the Reception Centre where Emergency Support Services were made available. The fire was fully contained by approximately 4:00 a.m., and firefighters remained on-site until 4:00 p.m. on Saturday, after which the building was handed over to the insurance agencies.
The Maple Ridge Fire and Rescue Services, in collaboration with the Ridge Meadows RCMP, have commenced an investigation into the cause of the fire at the construction site. Further updates will be shared once the investigation is complete.
The Canadian Red Cross, in partnership with the City's ESS, is working with those displaced by the fire to assess their immediate and long-term needs. The City will share information about local partners handling donations through its social media channels. Cash donations are preferred as they provide the greatest flexibility in supporting those affected.
The intensity of the fire caused debris to be scattered up to two kilometers north and west of the site. The City has deployed a street sweeper to remove debris from the road network. If residents find debris on their private property, they are advised to ensure it is cool to touch, use gloves to bag the debris and dispose of it in their regular garbage.
Citizens whose vehicles or private property sustained damage from the debris should contact ICBC or their private insurance company to report the damage and initiate a claim. Fraser Property Management, the property management company, has assumed responsibility for the evacuated building and will conduct assessments and site remediation. Residents should contact their strata manager for inquiries regarding building access (info@fraserproperty.ca).
A road closure is in effect on Brown Avenue from Edge Street east of 225 Street. The public is advised to avoid unnecessary travel to the site as assessments and remediation work are underway. For further updates, please follow the City's social media channels or visit www.mapleridge.ca/downtownfire.
The City of Maple Ridge is actively providing support to those affected by the recent fire incident. Efforts are underway to investigate the cause, assist displaced residents, dispose of debris, process insurance claims, and restore normalcy to the affected areas. Community members are encouraged to stay informed through the City's official communication channels. Together, the Maple Ridge community will unite to help and support its neighbors in need.
