Arson suspected in Kelowna house fire

Kelowna RCMP suspect arson was to blame for a house fire last week.

The fire broke out on the morning of Feb. 15. in the 500 block of Argyll Road in the city’s Rutland area.

READ MORE: Rutland home badly damaged in fire

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Police said they have since learned that a local resident, who spotted the fire, rushed back to his home to retrieve a fire extinguisher.  Despite the efforts, by the time he returned to the scene, the fire had grown significantly.

Police said that resident then joined in to assist a second Good Samaritan, who took steps to alert the homeowner inside and evacuate her from her residence.

The woman who lived at the home is in her mid to late 70’s.

She was brought out to safety and checked over by ambulance paramedics.

“The homeowner, who was home alone at the time, was unharmed thanks to the quick actions of her neighbours,” Cpl. Jesse O’Donaghey said.

The Kelowna RCMP General Investigations Section has now taken lead on this  ongoing investigation.

Police are seeking the public’s assistance to identify the second Good Samaritan who assisted the homeowner to safety.

Police are also interested in gathering any images or video taken of the scene during any stage of the fire.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Kelowna RCMP.