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Suspicious fire engulfs former BC Ferries ship near Mission, B.C.
In a dramatic turn of events, a retired BC Ferries vessel, known as the Queen of Sidney, caught fire in the waters of the Fraser River near Mission, British Columbia.
The incident, which occurred early Saturday morning, has prompted an investigation by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) due to the suspicious nature of the blaze.
Details of the incident
The fire was reported around 2 a.m. by local firefighters, who found the vessel completely engulfed in flames.
The City of Mission activated its emergency operations center in response to the situation, urging nearby residents to stay indoors due to hazardous smoke and potential airborne materials. Residents were advised to keep their doors and windows closed and to turn off any ventilation systems that could draw in outside air.
Background of the vessel
The Queen of Sidney was in operation from 1960 until its retirement in 2000, making it a significant part of British Columbia’s maritime history. After its retirement, the vessel was renamed Bad Adventure by its current owners, who have reportedly faced ongoing disputes with local and provincial authorities.
The ship’s storied past includes being one of the first ferries commissioned by then-premier W.A.C. Bennett, who introduced the BC Ferries Crown corporation in 1958.
Investigation and response
As the investigation unfolds, the RCMP has stated that there is currently no evidence to suggest that the fire was intentionally set.
However, due to the hazardous nature of the smoke and the condition of the vessel, investigators have not yet been able to board the ship. Multiple agencies, including the Mission Fire Rescue Service, the Canadian Coast Guard, and various environmental ministries, are collaborating to manage the situation and assess the next steps for the vessel.
By mid-afternoon on Saturday, the fire was reported to be under control, but officials warned that the remnants of the charred metal would continue to smolder for several days. This incident marks a tragic chapter in the life of a vessel that once played a vital role in connecting communities across British Columbia.
