RCMP say arson destroyed Red Bridge across Thompson River in Kamloops, B.C.

KAMLOOPS, B.C. — Police in Kamloops, B.C., say they have launched an arson investigation into the fire that destroyed the 88-year-old Red Bridge across the South Thompson River.

RCMP say in a statement that the blaze started early Thursday morning and by the time fire crews and police arrived, the bridge was fully engulfed in flames.

While crews did try to fight the flames, police say the 365-metre-long bridge collapsed into the river.

A statement from RCMP Supt. Jeff Pelly says the investigation is still in its early stages, but police are treating the fire as arson.

Pelly says the Red Bridge was an important and historic part of the community’s infrastructure, and it’s “disheartening” to think that it was purposely destroyed.

Thursday’s fire was the second at the bridge in as many days, and police say a possible link to the two fires is also part of their investigation.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Sept. 20, 2024.