VIDEO LINKS Kamloops’ Historic Red Bridge Destroyed by Fire
September 19, 2024: Early this morning, a fire destroyed the iconic Red Bridge in Kamloops, BC.
This is the second fire on the bridge this week, with the first incident on Tuesday, September 17th. That fire damaged the bridges southern support beams.
While that fire was contained and allowed the bridge to reopen, today’s blaze resulted in the complete destruction of the Red Bridges centre span.
Video posted to social media shows the massive fire and destruction of the historic Red Bridge in Kamloops British Columbia.
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Fire Chief Ken Uzeloc reported the fire started around 3 a.m. Firefighters attacked the blaze from both sides.
The damage is significantly worse than the earlier incident, leaving the bridge beyond repair.
The cause of the fire is under investigation, with no confirmation yet on whether it’s suspicious.
No injuries have been reported, but major traffic disruptions are in place.
While the Trans-Canada Highway and major routes north remain open, local traffic in the vicinity is being rerouted.
The City of Kamloops has closed all boat launches and riverside areas, urging residents to avoid the South Thompson and Thompson Rivers due to debris risks.
The Red Bridge, built in 1936, has been a vital connection between Kamloops and the Tk'emlúps te Secwépmc Reserve. Its loss is a significant cultural and transportation blow to the region.
The current Red Bridge, built in 1936, is the third wooden truss bridge at this site. The first bridge, known as the Government Bridge, was constructed in 1887, followed by a second bridge in 1912. Each served as a crucial crossing over the South Thompson River, linking Kamloops with the Tk'emlúps te Secwépmc Reserve and playing a key role in the region’s transportation history.
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Kamloops’ Historic Red Bridge Destroyed by Fire
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