Emergency crews are on scene and continue to respond to a significant structural fire at 453 Green Ave. involving a 48,000-square-foot, three-storey wood-frame building currently under construction.
The call was received at 10:12 p.m. on May 27, and fire crews arrived within six minutes with assistance through mutual aid from Summerland, Naramata, Penticton Indian Band and Kaleden. The incident was escalated to a third-alarm fire by 10:22 p.m. A total of 60 firefighters responded, and emergency personnel remain actively engaged in suppression and safety operations.
“This incident required a rapid, coordinated response, and crews acted quickly to limit further damage and protect surrounding homes,” said Mike Larsson, fire chief. “While significant progress has been made, there are still active fire areas on site. The unstable crane remains a key hazard and continues to affect suppression efforts. Our focus remains on maintaining safety for both residents and responders.”
Public safety and evacuations
A tactical evacuation was carried out in advance of the fire’s spread to protect residents. In total, 16 homes were evacuated:
• Four homes sustained fire damage
• Twelve homes remain evacuated due to an unstable crane structure on site that continues to pose a safety risk
• Crews will be on scene today to further assess the crane and determine next steps
There are no known injuries at this time.
Current situation
Fire crews continue to manage active fire conditions, which are being complicated by the impacted crane. In addition, six spot fires were identified and contained after embers travelled several blocks from the main fire.
“Our thoughts are with the residents who have been impacted by this fire,” said Mayor Julius Bloomfield. “We are grateful for the professionalism and dedication of all responding crews and partner agencies. The safety of our community remains our top priority, and we will continue to support those affected as response efforts continue.”
Traffic and access
Highway 97 remains partially closed, with single-lane alternating traffic on the west side. There is no confirmed timeline for full reopening. Motorists are asked to avoid the area where possible.
Partner agency support
The RCMP, including officers from Oliver, Summerland and Kelowna, are supporting evacuations, traffic control and public safety efforts. Emergency Support Services (ESS) has been activated to assist residents impacted by the event. Anyone displaced requiring ESS support may call 250-486-1890.
More information will be provided on official City channels as it becomes available. For more information on how to sign-up for Penticton Alert! the City’s Emergency Notification System, please visit: Penticton.ca/emergency-management/emergency-alerts.