UPDATE: One of two Rutland truck fires deemed suspicious

KELOWNA, B.C. – RCMP say one of the vehicle fires emergency crews responded to in Rutland Monday evening is suspicious. Police don’t believe the other fire was deliberately set but suspect the driver of the burning vehicle had been drinking.

Fire fighters attended two vehicle fires in the Rutland neighbourhoood Monday night. They were several blocks from each other, but reported to 911 in quick succession.

The first call saw a northbound vehicle catch fire along Highway 97 near Stremel Road. An older model pick-up truck had flames start under the hood in the engine.

The front end of the vehicle was heavily damaged as the flames grew before the fire department arrived. The driver managed to stop the truck in time and was uninjured.

Police say the 26-year-old driver’s breath smelled like liquor, but the man refused to give a breath sample. RCMP say the Kelowna resident was handed a 90-day driving ban and his truck was impounded for 30 days.

RCMP don’t think that blaze was deliberately set.

Fire crews were then called to 570 Hollydell Road, for reports of another truck on fire.

A newer pick-up truck had flames coming from the dashboard area.

Police say a driver who saw the blaze used snow to put out the flames. RCMP describe the damage as moderate.

RCMP say the second fire is suspicious and they are hoping for help from the public as they investigate the case.

“Police are seeking witnesses, anyone who may have seen any persons or vehicles in the area around the time of the fire is asked to call the Kelowna RCMP,” says Cst. Jess O’Donaghey.