RCMP and the B.C. Coroners Service are investigating a report of a possible death as a wildfire forces evacuations in the Summerland area.
Southeast District RCMP said a resident from Meadow Valley reported a possible fatality after the Bald Range wildfire cut off some areas during evacuation efforts.
“Hazardous conditions are present in the region, and police, along with the BC Coroners Service are investigating to confirm. Officers are working closely with the impacted family,” RCMP said in the release.
Officers from the Penticton and Summerland RCMP detachments began tactical evacuations, with support from other RCMP units and detachments in the region.
Police said evacuations of neighbourhoods and communities were largely successful but some areas had been cut off by the wildfire.
The Summerland RCMP detachment was also within an evacuation area. Police said the detachment activated its business continuity plan and was complying with evacuation orders.
RCMP said power and cellular service were intermittent in the region and asked people to reserve 911 calls for emergencies involving threats to life or crimes in progress.
Evacuees were asked to register with Emergency Support Services and motorists were advised to check DriveBC for current highway closures and road conditions.
Police urged residents to follow evacuation directions and other instructions from local governments, First Nations and B.C. wildfire officials.
RELATED STORIES: Click here for rolling coverage of the Bald Range Wildfire impacting Summerland and Peachland.
