On Thursday, May 1, 2025 at approximately 3:25 pm, a fire started in the general area of the Fish Creek Community Forest, and began to move North-East toward the area of Cecil Lake. At present, it is believed that no structures have been impacted.
City of Fort St. John Fire Department initially took command of the firefighting response with assistance from our mutual aid partners, including, District of Taylor Fire Department, Charlie Lake Fire Department, North Peace Regional Airport, and BC Wildfire Services. As of May 2, the fire is being managed cooperatively between BC Wildfire and the City of Fort St. John Fire Department.
During the first hours of the fire, Fort St. John RCMP implemented a tactical evacuation – going door to door to evacuate approximately 19 residences in close proximity of the wildfire. Those evacuees that needed supports were assisted at the Fort St. John ESS Reception Centre and provided with accommodation and food for one day. The evacuation officially ended early on May 2.
The fire status is still listed as “out of control,” however fire activity is significantly smaller on May 2 due to the swift response of our emergency responders and ongoing efforts through the night when temperatures cool and the wind diminished. Winds are forecasted to increase and there may be an increase fire activity and smoke visible again.
BC Wildfire lists the suspected cause of the fire as human, however, the investigation is in its very early stages. The cause of the fire has yet to be determined. Human caused fires can be unintentional or intentional, and include causes such as industrial activity, fireworks, or cigarettes improperly disposed of.
No further details about the cause of the fire are available at this time. More information may be released as it becomes available.
The Fort St John RCMP are requesting that anyone with information or video footage pertaining to the incident please contact the lead investigator Constable Shaun Wagantall at 250-787-8100.