Update, 12/23/25:
RCMP have now charged one person in connection with the Burns Lake church fire.
Police say 19 year old Brayden Riley Shelford has now been charged with break and enter to commit an indictable offence, therein arson, and intentionally or recklessly cause damage by fire or explosion to property.
He has been remanded in custody and could face additional charges.
Police added that the investigation remains active and there are no further updates at this time. They say more information may be released as it becomes available.
Original Story, published 12/22/2025:
A serious fire in Burns Lake has destroyed the Island Gospel Church.
Burns Lake Fire Rescue attended to the major structure fire early Saturday morning.
An afternoon update from the department said that although although the church has been destroyed, the auditorium and classroom survived, with some smoke and water damage.
It said the investigation is ongoing but a cause has yet to be determined, and that the Burns Lake Fire Department would like to express their sympathy to the congregation and the community on this huge loss.
A statement from the Village of Burns Lake Mayor also lamented the loss of the church, especially so close to the Christmas season, and thanked firefighters and emergency personnel for their response.
