Fraser Lake RCMP recover body following inn fire

Fraser Lake RCMP have recovered a body from the scene of a fire that took place at the Fraser Lake Inn last weekend.

According to a press release from Feb. 27, the RCMP have completed their search of the scene of the Feb. 22 fire at the inn.

Police believe the body recovered is that of the person who was previously unaccounted for, the release says. DNA analysis is being conducted for positive identification and police are working with the BC Coroners Service as the investigation continues.

The Fraser Lake RCMP responded to the fire at 3:06 a.m. on Feb. 22.

When Mounties arrived, they learned that a person had re-entered the building and was thought to be inside. Heavy smoke and fire prevented further rescue efforts, the release says.

The Fraser Lake Fire Department, along with nearby community fire crews, later put out the fire, which destroyed both the Fraser Lake Inn and an adjacent business, the Fraser Lake Shopping Centre. A cannabis shop and empty restaurant were also heavily damaged.

No evidence suggests criminality at this time, according to the release.

“On behalf of the Fraser Lake RCMP, I want to extend our deepest condolences to the family, friends, and community members affected by this tragic incident,” said Cpl. Brett Urano, an RCMP spokesperson. “Our thoughts are with them during this extremely difficult time, and we will continue to support the BC Coroners Service as their investigation proceeds.”

With files from Jen Zielinski