The North Valley Gymnastics building went up in flames, Oct. 31, 2021.

Image Credit: FACEBOOK/Chris Schick

Vernon Fire Rescue Services has concluded that a fire that completed gutted the city's gymnastics club has been deemed suspicious.

According to a City of Vernon media release, following a comprehensive investigation, the fire has been deemed suspicious and the file was handed over to the RCMP for further investigation.

The fire took place at around 7 a.m., Oct. 31, at the gymnastics club at the 4700 block of 31 Street and completely destroyed the building.

"By the time firefighters received the call, the building was already heavily involved," Vernon fire chief David Lind said in the release. "Due to the nature of the fire and the material that was burning inside, crews had to use a defensive approach from the exterior of the building to contain the scene and keep everyone safe. Unfortunately, the outcome of the fire was that the entire building was lost."

READ MORE: ‘We will rebuild,’ North Okanagan gymnastics community reeling after facility destroyed by fire

"We have heard a lot of stories in the last several days about how this loss has impacted many people in the community," chief Lind said. "Our thoughts continue to be with those who are part of the gymnastics club or enjoyed using the facility. Although this feels like a great loss for many, it has also been encouraging to see how community members have started to rally together and keep moving forward with their love for the sport."

The file is now in the hands of the RCMP and its fire investigator is working the case.

"Given the size of the building and extent of the damage, a thorough and comprehensive investigation into the cause will take some time," Vernon North Okanagan RCMP media relations officer Const. Chris Terleski said in a release. "We are mindful of the impact this loss has had on the community and are asking for everyone’s patience as our investigative team works diligently to determine the circumstances that led to the fire."

— This story updated at 1:22 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 10, 2021, with information from RCMP.

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