Pedro’s fruit stand fire deemed arson

SALMON ARM — A devastating fire last Monday at a Salmon Arm landmark has been deemed arson.

Pedro’s fruit stand on the Trans Canada highway is now a crime scene.

When Global Okanagan News spoke to the Salmon Arm fire department, investigators were puzzled as to why both front and back buildings at Pedro’s fruit stand went up in flames at the same time.

Parts of the business that weren’t gutted by flames were heavily damaged by water and smoke.

Fire fighters also had to remain back from the flames until fireworks and fertilizer on the site weren’t deemed to be a hazard.

Although few details have been released, a fire ignition point was discovered and the investigation has now been handed over to the Salmon Arm RCMP.

A Pedro’s spokesperson told Global Okanagan News the arson investigation does not involve the family who own and operate the business.