A massive fire that destroyed a new townhouse complex on Cedar Hill Road near the University Heights Mall on Sunday evening is now being deemed suspicious.
The fire started about 8:30 pm at a four townhouse construction site. Several propane tanks exploded and flames shot 75 feet in the air. The thick black smoke could be seen for kilometers.
About 40 people were immediately evacuated until the fire could be contained and controlled. Most were able to return to their homes either last night or earlier today.
Saanich Fire escorted all returning evacuees into their units and tested air quality before allowing them back in. The fire destroyed or damaged 10 occupied units. These people have been provided emergency social services to assist them with immediate relocation needs.
The fire scene is still smoldering and fire crews will remain on site for the remainder of the day.
Police say traffic will be disrupted along Cedar Hill for some time still. People are asked to avoid this area completely, and if they are there, to stay well clear of police line tape.
BC Hydro has cut power to approximately 100 people around the fire scene until it is deemed safe to reconnect. Power could be back on to homes unaffected by the fire in the early morning hours of May 24th.
Road closures along Cedar Hill Rd and Shelbourne St, from McKenzie Ave to Feltam Ave will continue.
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Saanich Police say a closer inspection of the scene is being done by both police and fire investigators to determine the cause and scope of the damage.
At this time, they are saying the fire is deemed suspicious and police are asking for anyone with information to call their tipline at 250-475-4356 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS.
Crews have fire knocked down at 4009, Cedar Hill Rd, continuing to knock down hot spots. pic.twitter.com/ZQ4z0a7N1r
— Saanich Fire Department (@SaanichFire) May 23, 2016
