West Kelowna fatal fire likely caused by “production of drugs”

WEST KELOWNA – RCMP say the house where an “explosive fire” killed a man earlier this week was almost certainly being used for the "production of drugs”.

Police do not say what kind of drugs were being produced when the house in the 3000 block of Elliot Road in West Kelowna exploded into flames around 9:45 p.m. Wednesday, July 4.

But they do say investigation into the explosion is being supported by the provincial Clandestine Laboratory Enforcement and Response Team, media relations officer Cpl. Jesse O’Donaghey said in a press release.

Although police have not identified him, David Hunt was confirmed as the young man who died after the explosion and fire consumed the rural home.

Chiara Boehlke and her boyfriend Aleck Villeneuve were critically injured and airlifted to Vancouver. A fourth unidentified person suffered minor injuries.

It was testimony from first responders such as West Kelowna Fire Rescue that first suggested the home may have been used for drug production, the release said.

A search through the rubble of the home continued throughout the day, Friday, July 6, with heavy equipment. A barricade of Elliot Road by police cars continues.

Police are asking anyone with information about this incident to contact West Kelowna RCMP at 250-768-2880.

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