Vernon Fire Rescue Services extinguished a kitchen fire at Silver Star Brewing Company early on February 24. The incident, which caused no injuries, has been handed over to the RCMP for investigation as a suspected arson. Authorities are seeking public assistance with information.
On Tuesday, February 24, around 1:45 a.m., Vernon Fire Rescue Services (VFRS) responded to reports of smoke emanating from the roof of Silver Star Brewing Company, a micro-brewery located in downtown Vernon. Upon arrival, firefighters entered the structure and discovered an extensive fire in the kitchen area. Crews quickly contained and extinguished the blaze, then ventilated the building to clear the smoke.
No injuries were reported as a result of the fire, which damaged the kitchen. The cause of the incident remains under investigation, with the case transferred to the Vernon North Okanagan RCMP. Police have deemed the fire suspicious in nature and are treating it as a potential arson.
"An investigation into the cause of the fire is underway," stated Constable Chris Terleski, Media Relations Officer for the Vernon North Okanagan RCMP. Investigators are collecting physical evidence from the scene and reviewing video surveillance footage from nearby businesses.
Anyone with information is urged to contact the Vernon North Okanagan RCMP at (250) 545-7171 and reference police file number 2026-3085. As of 11 a.m. on Tuesday, the brewery remained closed, secured with police tape at both front and back entrances.
The rapid response from VFRS prevented the fire from spreading further, highlighting the efficiency of local emergency services in addressing overnight incidents in the community.
