Update: Police urge public to avoid school fire scene

Coquitlam, Information Wanted, Public Alert

2023-10-14 18:23 PDT

File # 2023-27725

Coquitlam RCMP are urging the public and the media to avoid the area in and around the Hazel Trembath Elementary School in Port Coquitlam due to potentially hazardous air quality caused by the fire. The public can expect road closures along Confederation Drive for several days as the investigation continues.

See previous media release from October 14, 2023

The hazardous air quality from the fire is expected to linger for several days. The public is reminded to be cognizant of shifting wind patterns that may cause smoke to change directions within the neighbourhood.

View a larger image - The public gather outside of the Police tape at the fire scene

We understand that students, staff, parents and neighbours may want to view the damage first-hand as they grieve the loss of the school, said Media Relations Officer, Corporal Alexa Hodgins. The smoke and air quality is unsafe and only officials with appropriate personal protective equipment should be near the scene.

View a larger image - Smoke lingers above the burnt remnants of Hazel Trembath Elementary school

View a larger image - Port Coquitlam Fire continue to extinguish the fire at the school

Out of an abundance of caution, the public is asked to avoid attending the Hazel Trembath Elementary School. Police are asking neighbouring residents to avoid going outdoors and close any windows and doors to limit their air exposure.

Police are asking anyone who may have information regarding the fire, who have not spoken to our officers to contact the Coquitlam RCMP at 604-945-1550, said Sergeant Karrie Ellis of the Coquitlam RCMP General Investigation Section. Anyone who may have video of the incident or witnessed any suspicious activity between 9:00 p.m. on Friday, October 13, 2023 and 3:30 a.m. on Saturday, October 14, 2023 is asked to reach out to our investigators.

The file has been assumed by Coquitlam RCMP General Investigation Section (GIS).

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Coquitlam RCMP at 604-945-1550 and quote file number 2023-27725.

Released by:

Email: coquitlam_media@rcmp-grc.gc.ca
Website: coquitlam.rcmp-grc.gc.ca (English only)

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