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The fire burning at the Alliance Church (Image Credit: Liam Verster / Vernon Matters)
breaking news

UPDATE: Investigation underway into fire at local church

Aug 31, 2026 | 6:25 PM

Update 10:15 a.m. September 1

The cause of the fire that significantly damaged a church in Vernon is under investigation.

The City of Vernon said, on behalf of Vernon Fire Rescue Services, that the fire department and Vernon North Okanagan RCMP were on the scene of the Alliance Church fire Tuesday, September 1, investigating the cause, which had not been determined as of time of publication.

The fire erupted Monday evening and caused significant damage to the structure, but a firewall was able to limit the spread of the flames and reduced the damage to the sanctuary.

There were no injuries reported as a result of the fire.

“I would like to express my sincere gratitude to the firefighters, our regional fire service partners, the RCMP, BC Emergency Health Services, FortisBC, BC Hydro, and all those who worked tirelessly to limit the loss as much as possible,” said Fire Chief David Lind.

“We are grateful that no one was injured in this incident.

“This event is an important reminder that fire can spread quickly. I encourage everyone to ensure their smoke alarms are in good working order and to have a home escape plan so they can get out quickly and safely in the event of a fire.”

Flames burning through the roof of the Alliance Church Monday evening

Flames burning through the roof of the Alliance Church Monday evening

Damages to the Alliance Church caused by the fire

Damages to the Alliance Church caused by the fire

Damages to the Alliance Church caused by the fire

Damages to the Alliance Church caused by the fire

— Original Story —

The Alliance Church in Vernon was significantly damaged in a fire Monday evening.

Fire crews from Vernon, BX/Swan Lake, Coldstream and Armstrong-Spallumcheen responded to a structue fire at 5:24 p.m. August 31.


The fire burning at the Alliance Church at 7:30 p.m. Monday

As of 8:45 p.m. firefighters were still on the scene, working to bring the blaze under control.

A representative from the City of Vernon said the fire “caused significant damage to the structure,” and that crews would “remain on the scene overnight to continue firefighting operations and address any remaining hot spots.”

No injuries had been reported in relation to the fire, the cause of which remained under investigation.

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