The Vancouver Fire Rescue Services (VFRS) says a fire that broke out in Chinatown Friday (March 31) night was likely the result of arson.
Around 10:54 p.m., the VFRS received a call about a small fire at an ATM inside the Scotiabank Bank at 268 Keefer St. in Chinatown. When crews arrived, smoke was coming from the ATM and the sprinkler head had been activated, VFRS spokesperson Matthew Trudeau told V.I.A.
Crews ensured the fire was out and checked inside of the building for damages. There was no additional fire damage outside of the ATM but there was significant damage from smoke and water from the sprinklers.
Eleven fire trucks were dispatched to the first alarm fire, which was deemed incendiary and referred to VPD for arson investigation, Trudeau explained.
VPD Spokesperson Const. Tania Visintin says the "suspicious fire" is still under investigation.
There are no reports of injuries as the bank was unoccupied at the time.
A note that was posted by Sun Wah Centre Management to tenants and visitors notes that the bank was flooded and "no emergency restoration team can get into it or clear off the water due to hazardous smoke occupied."
The management team added that some units continued to experience leakage Saturday.
