Kelowna

UPDATE: 7:23 a.m.

The fire started at approximately 1:10 a.m., when the Kelowna Fire Department responded to several 9/11 calls of smoke and flames coming from the strip mall at 1470 Harvey Ave.

According to Platoon Captain Tim Light, first responders reported heavy smoke coming from the roof above units five and six of the strip mall. Crews began an offensive interior attack, but were forced to change to a defensive exterior attack when the ceiling of the units started to collapse.

One employee was evacuated from Cora’s restaurant and residents from nearby apartment buildings were also evacuated and sheltered in the lobbies. Once the fire was extinguished they were allowed back in their suites. No injuries were reported from the fire or during the evacuation.

In total, the KFD had four fire engines, a rescue vehicle, ladder truck, command vehicle and several support vehicles on scene with 44 personnel.

The cause of the blaze is listed as undetermined at this time. Investigators will be on scene this morning.

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A huge fire has damaged much of Burtch Plaza at the corner of Burtch and Hwy. 97, in Kelowna.

The massive blaze started about 2 a.m. and is burning several businesses. People have been evacuated from buildings surrounding the plaza. 

The Plaza is home to several businesses. As of 3 a.m. fire fighters were trying to save Cora (restaurant). 

These are the businesses that are already destroyed: 

• Color Me Mine
• Eco Water
• Soccer Express
• Canadian 2 For 1 Pizza

There are no reports of any injuries a this time.

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