On October 21, 2015 at approximately 1:34 am, Saanich Fire and Saanich Police responded to a house fire at 3970 Cedar Hill Cross Rd. The fire was evident upon arrival of first responders.
Four occupants of the home were found to be safely out of the house and accounted for. Numerous surrounding homes were evacuated until the fire was contained and it was determined that the neighbouring residents could return to their homes. The fire was extinguished at approximately 2:15 am.
All of the occupants of the home were transported to hospital as a cautionary measure for smoke inhalation, and have since been release from hospital.
“At this time we can say that the fire appears to be suspicious in nature and as such the scene is being treated as a possible crime scene” Sgt. Steve Eassie said. “While we cannot yet confirm the cause of the fire, it would appear that the fire likely started outside of the residence”.
Officers from the Saanich Police Forensic Identification Section and investigators from the Saanich Fire Department were at the scene searching for possible evidence.
The residence, a single family dwelling, was confirmed to be the location of a specialised foster home. The three youths residing at the home have been successfully relocated by staff from the Ministry of Children and Families and are being provided ongoing support.
“It is estimated that the home and its contents have damage estimated to be approximately $200,000 to $300,000” Eassie said.
Police investigators have been canvassing the neighbourhood looking for anyone that may have information about the incident.
This investigation is in the early stages and is ongoing.
Anyone that has any information about this incident, or anyone that may have seen anything suspicious in this area around the time of the fire, are asked to
contact the Saanich Police Department at 250-475-4321 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS.
File 2015-23457
Sgt. Steve Eassie #158