BURSTAn out-of-control grass fire took the life of a man on a farm near Lumby Wednesday.
Vernon North Okanagan RCMP were called to a rural property in the 1300 block of Trinity Valley Road July 22 around 2:25 p.m. for a report of an out-of-control fire.
BC Wildfire Services quickly deployed helicopters to the property and neighbours were able to keep the fire from reaching the residence until the Lumby Fire Department arrived.
The initial findings from the investigation suggest the owner of the property was operating a tractor and baler when the machinery caught fire, igniting the field around it.
Given the extremely dry conditions, the fire spread quickly from the field to the nearby trees and a hay shed that was fully engulfed and could not be saved.
“Tragically, the man was unable to escape the fire and was found deceased close to the burnt-out tractor and baler,” said Const. Chris Terleski, RCMP media relations officer. “Our sincerest condolences go out to his family, friends, and the community during this incredibly difficult time.”
The BC Coroners Service attended and is now conducting its own concurrent fact finding investigation.