Years later, investigation into Lytton wildfire concludes without answers

A years-long investigation into the devastating wildfire that destroyed the community of Lytton in the summer of 2021 has concluded.

Although the investigation has come to an end, the BC RCMP said that the cause of the fire was not able to be determined. Because there is no known cause, it also can not be determined that the fire was the result of a criminal offence.

Investigators said that they focused on “various aspects” including determining the cause and origin of the fire, assessing whether there was possible criminality, and looking at compliance or regulatory impacts.

The RCMP said that the parking lot and park area at the end of River Drive at the south end of the village was a main focus as investigators looked for the origin of the fire.

It was noted that the area provided access to a foot and rail bridge that crosses the Fraser River, police looked at the movements and actions of any people and vehicles who were there at the time the fire began. They even looked at a southbound freight train that went through the area.

Additionally, investigators conducted a search of two areas of interest —one was a 1 km radius area near Lytton and the other was a 2 km radius area near Boston Bar.

Over the course of the last few years, investigators collected 55 physical exhibits, as well as digital forensic evidence that included over 400 videos and photos.

They also reported that 168 witness interviews were conducted.

The RCMP say that, although nothing could confirm the cause or origin of the fire, it was not due to a “lack of effort.”

“Throughout this investigation the RCMP focused on the how and why,” says C/Supt. Brad Haugli, Southeast District Commander.

“Significant work was done to not only look at establishing and confirming what did happen, but to eliminate what didn’t happen. We remain committed to the community and the important need to support all those impacted, while we also join in the collective efforts to rebuild.”

The RCMP has shared investigative findings with the Village of Lytton, the Lytton First Nation and the family of those who were killed.

“While the investigative efforts have concluded, it does not preclude credible information being received in the future,” the RCMP added.

“Due to the potential for future developments, as we’ve seen before in complex and lengthy investigations, the specific details of the evidence will remain protected.”