Crime scene investigation on sidewalk outside Vernon library branch June 23. (file photo/Vernon Matters Staff)

By Pete McIntyre

Near crime scene

Vernon library closed extra day for safety reasons

Jun 26, 2023 | 4:00 PM

Some patrons of the Okanagan Regional Library in Vernon were surprised to find the branch was closed this past Saturday (June 24).

Michael Utko, director of marketing and communications with ORL, said they closed the facility Friday due to the police investigation into a serious burn incident at nearby Justice Park which included part of the sidewalk in front of the library building on 30th Avenue.

He said they also closed Saturday for ongoing safety reasons.

“We felt it was the safest avenue for us to take as far as patron and staff safety,” Utko told Vernon Matters.

After a normal closed day on Sunday, the branch is open again today (June 26).

Possible firearm involved

One person apprehended in connection with suspicious activity in Coldstream

Dec 13, 2025

Fatal Collision, Highway Closed

One person dead in crash near Revelstoke

Dec 13, 2025

Salaries

Vernon Council to discuss lesser pay increases

Dec 12, 2025

RCMP have not issued any updates on the incident Friday where a person suffered life-threatening burns in that part of the downtown.

At last report, no suspects had been arrested and the cause was under investigation.