Off-duty officer saves three from burning home
Lake Cowichan
2023-07-09 14:11 PDT
File # 2023-1280
An off-duty officer from North Cowichan/Duncan RCMP is being credited for saving the lives of three adults from a burning home early this morning, on July 9, 2023.
At approximately 4:41 a.m., a neighbor had called 9-1-1 to report that a residence on Cowichan Avenue near King George Road, had smoke coming out of the home. That neighbor attempted to knock on the door to rouse the occupants, however, received no response.
The police officer happened to be driving by at about the same time, on his way to work, and was able to gain access to the home. He located two men inside, woke them up and assisted them outside. One of the men advised there was a third occupant, a woman, who was still inside the home and so the officer returned inside for her.
Fortunately, the officer was able to get everyone out to safety, as the home became fully engulfed in flames shortly after the third occupant was removed. All three adults were checked by Emergency Health Services, and no serious injuries were sustained.
The officer’s actions and bravery is commendable
, says Sgt. Lita Watson, Detachment Commander of Lake Cowichan RCMP. He put his own life in danger, without even a second thought, to help those people who would have been severely injured. I want to also recognize and acknowledge the efforts made by the neighbor who tried their best to rouse the occupants of that home and called for emergency assistance. These neighborly acts really speak to the close knit and supportive community we live in here in Lake Cowichan
, she adds.
The investigation into the cause of the fire is ongoing, however, at this time is not deemed suspicious. The Emergency Management Cowichan is engaged to assist the victims with relocation.
Released by:
BC RCMP Communication Services
778-290-2929
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