A house on Chilliwack Central Road went up in flames after a suspected drunk driver smashed into it during the early morning hours on Tuesday in Chilliwack.
The collision happened near the corner of Walters Street around 1:43 a.m. on June 16 and the house was fully engulfed in flames when crews arrived on scene.
Firefighters saw “heavy fire originating from the basement level of a residential structure, extending to the second floor,” assistant fire chief Wade Meeres stated in a press release later that same day.
Initial reports indicated that a vehicle had left the roadway, collided with the residence, and came to rest inside the basement of the home.
“The lone driver of the vehicle was located on scene, and alcohol is believed to be a factor at this time,” Chilliwack RCMP stated in an email to The Chilliwack Progress. “No further details are available as the investigation is ongoing.”
Firefighters initiated an “offensive fire attack to contain the blaze and prevent further extension throughout the structure,” Meeres added.
Two families were displaced as a result of the fire and they lost everything.
“We got out alive. I was almost hit by the car as I was standing in the doorway of my bedroom and kitchen,” Lexi Hamilton wrote on social media. “I lost everything. Every belonging I ever owned, and all of my two sons’ belongings are gone.”
Four cats and two dogs made it out alive, though Hamilton’s dogs were injured she said.
A fundraiser was set up by Cindy Andersen for the other family which includes her friend Amanda Desiree and her four children. To donate, go to gofundme.com/f/t5v4t-please-help-amanda-and-her-family.
The displaced residents are being assisted by Chilliwack Emergency Support Services (ESS).
Approximately 30 firefighters from Halls 1, 2, 4, and 6 were at fire. RCMP and other utility partners also attended the scene.
There were no civilian or firefighter injuries reported.
The cause of the fire is under investigation by the RCMP with support from the Chilliwack Fire Department.
Anyone with information regarding this fire is encouraged to call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).
Jenna Hauck is a journalist with The Chilliwack Progress. Email her at jenna.hauck@theprogress.com