NORTH SAANICH-- Early this morning, Sidney North Saanich RCMP and North Saanich Fire Department received a report of a structure fire at a home on Xpaen Lane in North Saanich.
One half of the duplex home was fully engulfed in flames. There were nine people living in both sides of the duplex, and everyone was able to be safely evacuated prior to police arrival.
Police have secured the scene and are continuing to assist Fire Department investigators to determine the cause of the blaze. Cpl. Doug Wilson with Sidney North Saanich RCMP said they don’t suspect foul play to be a cause, but treat any structure fire as suspicious until investigators are able to rule it out.
Because of the intense heat from the fire, it will be some time before fire investigators can enter safely to examine the actual scene.
The matter remains under investigation at this time.
-- Submitted by Sidney North Saanich RCMP