Cause of Summerland wildfire under investigation as RCMP examine reports of suspicious activity

The RCMP is investigating the cause of the Summerland Bald Range wildfire, which rapidly grew on Friday, August 7, 2026, forcing thousands of residents to evacuate. Investigators are seeking information from anyone who may have seen suspicious activity near Princeton-Summerland Road and Bathville Road, including dashcam footage, videos, and photos from Friday afternoon.

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Investigators are interested in speaking to witnesses who may have observed any actions or activities around Princeton-Summerland Road and Bathville Road, near and in the Crump Recreation site and the Trout Creek Recreation site.

Police are aware of social media videos showing a person lighting a wildlife deterrent device, but confirmed this incident occurred kilometers away from the fire's origin and the individual is considered a witness, not a suspect. Authorities caution the public against spreading misinformation.

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Police said they have identified the person in the video, who is considered a witness and not a suspect.

The Bald Range wildfire forced evacuations and resulted in the loss of homes and structures. On Sunday, police confirmed an 80-year-old woman died while attempting to flee the flames. An evacuation order remains in effect for the District of Summerland, with police and conservation officers patrolling the area. One man was arrested within the evacuated zone on August 9.

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The public is cautioned against making false statements and to stop the continuation of misinformation on social media, police added.

Anyone with information regarding the wildfire's origin is urged to contact the Penticton RCMP Detachment or submit digital footage to baldrangereporting@rcmp-grc.gc.ca.

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4:29 One dead amid evacuation efforts in Summerland