Fire Destroys School at Blueberry River First Nation

A devastating fire has leveled the local school at the Blueberry River First Nation, a remote community in northeastern British Columbia. The blaze, which occurred early Saturday morning, has left the community northwest of Fort St. John without its central educational facility.

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Timeline of the Blaze

The Fort St. John RCMP were alerted to the emergency at approximately 6:30 a.m. on January 17, 2026. By the time first responders reached the scene, the structure was already fully engulfed. Due to the intensity of the flames, the building is considered a total loss.

Investigation and Safety

• Casualties: Early reports confirm that no one was injured in the fire.
• Cause: While the investigation is in its preliminary stages, police currently have no evidence to suggest the fire was suspicious.
• Response Challenges: The community is located outside the formal fire protection zone of the Peace River Regional District, highlighting the logistical difficulties faced by remote First Nations during emergencies.

A Community in Mourning

The school served as more than just a place for classes; it was a cornerstone for the roughly 500 members of the Blueberry River First Nation. The loss disrupts the education of dozens of students and removes a vital gathering space for the community.

Local authorities are urging anyone who may have witnessed unusual activity in the area early Saturday morning to contact the Fort St. John RCMP at 250-787-8140.