North Vancouver Fire Rescue Service was called to the fatal blaze on Tuesday, said RCMP Sgt. Peter DeVries
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One person has died and 70 others had to be rushed to safety after a fire broke out early Tuesday in a Lynn Valley apartment complex.
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Crews from North Vancouver Fire Rescue Service were called about the blaze in Silverlynn Apartments at 1335 East 27th St. shortly after 6 am
“Flames and smoke were seen coming from the three-storey structure, and firefighters quickly brought the fire under control,” said North Vancouver RCMP spokesman Sgt. Peter DeVries in a news release. “We are very saddened to report that one person has died as a result of the fire.”
DeVries said “the heroic efforts of firefighters and other first responders” were unable to save the person and an investigation by the BC Coroners Service is underway.
Concerned Silverlynn residents told North Shore News last fall that the building, which is managed by the Lowland Senior Citizens’ Housing Society, was in disrepair and a “fire hazard.”
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“It’s despicable. I don’t invite my friends here,” Peter Phelan, 89, told the paper. “It’s that embarrassing. It’s a total fire hazard.”
BC Housing told North Shore News at the time it was working to address the deficiencies.
“We are aware of resident concerns about the deteriorating situation at Silverlynn, a building that is more than 40 years old,” said a September 2021 statement. “We are working closely with the Lowland Senior Citizens’ Housing Society, who operate the residence and are responsible for its maintenance, to ensure seniors have a safe place to live.”
As people were being evacuated by first responders on Tuesday morning, North Shore Emergency Management brought in support services that will provide three days of shelter plus clothing and food to the 70 or so residents who were displaced. Victim services have also been offered.
DeVries said a police investigation will determine if any criminality was involved.
“This is truly a tragedy,” said DeVries. “Thankfully, this community has excellent supports in place to take care of those affected by this fire. But our hearts go out today especially to the family and friends of the person who lost their life.”
The identity of the person who died isn’t being released as relatives haven’t all been notified.