Emergency Crews Respond to Two Fires Wednesday Afternoon in Sooke

At approximately 4:10 p.m. on Wednesday, June 3, 2026, emergency crews responded to a structure fire in Sooke’s Town Centre on Felton Lane.

Two occupants were safely evacuated from the single-family residence and treated for smoke inhalation at the scene. Sadly, a dog perished in the fire. No injuries to emergency responders were reported. Five people have been displaced, and Emergency Support Services is providing support.

Members from Sooke Fire Rescue, Otter Point Volunteer Fire Department, Metchosin Fire Department and East Sooke Fire Department responded, along with Sooke RCMP and BC Ambulance.

The affected portion of Sooke Road was closed for approximately 90 minutes during the emergency response. Crews remained on scene for several hours. While the home sustained significant damage, the fire was contained and neighbouring properties were not damaged.

As crews respond to emergency incidents, they must often manage fire suppression, rescue operations, apparatus movement and traffic safety at the same time. Public cooperation is critical to helping responders maintain safe access and keep emergency operations moving.

The response also provides an important reminder for drivers: please do not drive over fire hoses unless directed to do so by emergency personnel. While hoses were not damaged during this incident, driving over a charged or uncharged fire hose can create serious risks. Vehicle weight can damage hose lines, interrupt water supply to crews actively fighting a fire, delay emergency operations, and create hazards for firefighters and the public.

The cause of the structure fire remains under investigation, which may take several weeks. The Office of the Fire Commissioner has been notified and is supporting the investigation.

During the response to the Felton Lane structure fire, a separate brush fire was reported on Otter Point Road at approximately 4:30 p.m. That fire was quickly extinguished and contained to approximately 12 feet by 12 feet.

Early indication is that the Otter Point Road fire was caused by spontaneous combustion of organic material. This can occur when debris such as compost, mulch, broom or other piled yard waste generates and retains heat, creating conditions where it can ignite without an external flame. The incident is a reminder of the current dry conditions, even with light rainfall over the last 24 hours. The fire danger rating for the area was listed as high on Wednesday.

“We are grateful for the effective and coordinated response from our crews and mutual aid partners, as well as the support of Sooke RCMP and BC Ambulance,” said Deputy Chief Chris McCrea. “We also want to thank the public for their patience while Sooke Road was closed and traffic was detoured during the evening commute.”

“Responding to two separate fires at the same time required quick coordination and strong teamwork,” said Deputy Chief McCrea. “Crews worked closely with mutual aid partners and brought both incidents under control.”

The District of Sooke reminds residents to use caution during dry conditions and to report fires immediately by calling 9-1-1.