The fire that ripped through the Knights Hall on Dec. 19 was likely human-caused.
Cranbrook Fire Chief Scott Driver said the investigation isn’t complete but it’s safe to say it was human-caused.
He said they are still unsure if it was deliberately set or an accident.
Cranbrook council ordered the demolition of the building requiring the owner to demolish it by Dec. 27.
That didn’t happen so the city contracted the work and demolition began on Dec. 31.
“I am truly grateful for the support received from our contractors throughout this project, without whom we could not have safely carried out this work in the timely fashion that was necessary,” said Driver.
“Of note, we would like to thank Branden Bolen the structural engineer who came out on short notice so he could complete his assessment on top the fire department’s ladder truck, and for the work at the site; Bravo Restorations, Keefer HSE, Hardy Construction Services, Revolution Earthworks, Bolen Engineering and Mountain Eagle Security. As partners in public safety, I would also like to thank our local RCMP detachment for their support and the BC Office of the Fire Commissioner for assistance with the fire investigation. This was a true collaboration of efforts over the holidays and would not have been possible without the commitment of everyone involved.”
The cost of demolition was put on the property owner and city staff said they will be communicating with the owner regarding the site cleanup.