Tragedy Strikes Kelowna: .1 Dead, 17 Displaced after Apartment Fire Kelowna, B.C. – A devastating fire tore through an apartment building in Kelowna on Monday night, leaving one person dead and 17 others displaced. Firefighters responded to the blaze at the three-story building on Gordon Drive around 11:30 p.m. According to witnesses, flames were seen billowing from the roof of the structure. “It was a chaotic scene,” said Kelowna Fire Department Chief Jason Michalyshen. “Firefighters worked tirelessly to contain the flames and rescue residents.” Despite their efforts, one person was pronounced dead at the scene. The victim’s identity has not been released. Seventeen residents were evacuated from the building, with many losing their belongings in the fire. The Red Cross is providing assistance to those affected. “We are deeply saddened by the loss of life and the displacement of so many people,” said Kelowna Mayor Colin Basran. “Our thoughts are with the victims and their families.” The cause of the fire is still under investigation. However, preliminary reports suggest it may have started on the second floor of the building. “We are committed to conducting a thorough investigation to determine what caused this tragedy,” said Michalyshen. The apartment building has been deemed unsafe for habitation, and residents are being advised to make alternative living arrangements. The fire has left a significant impact on the Kelowna community. The Red Cross is urging residents to donate clothing, toiletries, and other necessities to help those who have lost their homes. “Our community is resilient,” said Basran. “We will come together to support those who have been affected by this devastating fire.”Kelowna Apartment Fire Claims Life, Displaces 17Kelowna Apartment Fire Claims Life, Displaces 17 Kelowna officials have reported a fatal fire at a two-storey apartment building, resulting in the death of a 42-year-old woman and the displacement of 17 residents. Emergency crews responded to the blaze at 736 Bernard Ave. on Friday at approximately 5:30 p.m. PT. Upon arrival, fire crews observed smoke and flames emanating from a second-storey window. The deceased woman’s identity has not been released. RCMP Corporal Michael Gauthier extended condolences to the victim’s family and stated that support services would be provided. Seventeen residents were forced to evacuate and received assistance from emergency support services. The blaze was contained to a single suite, and firefighters remained on site overnight to extinguish any potential hotspots. The investigation into the cause of the fire is ongoing. No further details were immediately available. The Kelowna Fire Department utilized four fire engines during the operation. Animal rescuers also assisted in removing several cats from the apartment building. The displaced residents were transported by bus to a reception center for temporary shelter.One person has died and 17 others have been displaced after a fire tore through an apartment building in Kelowna on Friday evening. Fire crews were called to the building on Richter Street just before 7 p.m. and found heavy smoke and flames coming from the second floor. Firefighters were able to quickly extinguish the blaze, but not before it caused extensive damage to the building. One person was found dead inside the building, and 17 others were displaced. The cause of the fire is still under investigation.