West Vancouver police have taken over the investigation into the March 30 fire that destroyed the Ambleside Youth Centre.
“At this point, we are able to say that this fire has been deemed to be suspicious and our investigation is active and ongoing,” said Const. Kevin Goodmurphy, West Vancouver police spokesman. “It could have been accidental but we’re still having to follow up on leads, and investigators are still looking at all the evidence that was brought forward.”
Goodmurphy could not say whether there are any persons of interest in the case but he added there is no reason for the public to be concerned as there is nothing to indicate a firebug at work. “We are still asking if the public has any further information, please come forward,” Goodmurphy added.
The structure was built as part of an anti-aircraft gun encampment to protect Vancouver Harbour during the Second World War. In the 1950s, it was repurposed for the West Vancouver Rod & Gun Club, and was converted to a youth centre in 1996. The district moved all youth services to other community centres in January when the roof partially collapsed during a storm. Council balked at the repair bill and decommissioned the site for more parking. The district was planning to demolish the building this month but the fire has left the site contaminated. In response, the district has installed silt fencing along Pound Road and filters at storm-water drains while the contractor determines next steps.
