One person is dead and another remains in hospital following a house fire in Sooke early Sunday morning.
According to Sooke RCMP, officers responded alongside Sooke Fire Rescue to a structure fire at a single-family home at approximately 5:21 a.m. on April 5th.
One person was pronounced dead at the scene, while a second individual was transported to hospital with serious injuries and remains in care.
Police say there is no indication of criminality at this stage of the investigation.
The BC Coroners Service has confirmed it is investigating the death. However, as the investigation remains ongoing, no further details have been released.
In a statement, RCMP spokesperson Cpl. Brett Urano said the incident has had a significant impact on those involved.
“Our thoughts and sincere condolences are with the family, friends, and loved ones of the person who lost their life in this tragic incident,” he said.
Family members have since identified the victim as 74-year-old Linda Stirling. Her daughter was also inside the home at the time of the fire and suffered serious injuries.
She remains in hospital as of Monday.
Neighbours in the area described a chaotic and emotional scene as the fire unfolded.
One nearby resident, Paul Keene, said he awoke around 4:50 a.m. to an orange glow coming from the neighbouring home and immediately called 911 before attempting to extinguish the flames with a garden hose.
Keene said the fire quickly intensified, spreading within seconds and turning into what they described as an inferno.
The blaze prompted road closures in the Rhodonite Drive area as emergency crews worked to bring the fire under control.
Sooke RCMP continue to work with the BC Coroners Service and Sooke Fire Rescue to determine the cause of the fire.
Anyone with information who has not yet spoken with police is asked to contact Sooke RCMP at (250) 642-5241.
