Remains of woman in her 90s may never be found after Penticton house fire

PENTICTON – The body of an elderly woman believed killed in a house fire a week ago may never be recovered.

In a media release issued by Penticton RCMP today, police made clear their investigation continues and they are considering her a missing person despite what appears to be obvious. 

Mary Ruth Esta, 92, was suspected to have died in the Lakeside Road residential fire on Oct. 11. Emergency officials found no sign of her in the debris, or any other place she might be.

In the same release, a family member acknowledged that it's very likely she died in the fire. 

“Due to her age and medical condition it is unlikely that she could have got out, and we understand that it may be unlikely that she is ever located,” said Esta’s step-son Rick Gammer. “Our family is very appreciative of the efforts of all first responders and realize what a difficult job it is for them.”

RCMP spokesperson Spl. Don Wrigglesworth says the police have no reason to suspect foul play at this time and are continuing to work with the family to explore other investigative avenues.

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