After the wildfire threat subsided, a family in Summerland, British Columbia, returned home to discover their house had been ransacked by looters. Mira Boucher, the homeowner, mentioned that while the Bald Range wildfire did not destroy their house, it was violated by thieves during the evacuation period when the entire community was empty.
The Boucher family, who had recently moved into their Summerland home before the wildfire evacuation, witnessed the approaching flames and had to evacuate in a hurry with minimal belongings. Upon returning, they found their home in disarray, with valuables like computers, jewelry, and gaming consoles missing.
Boucher expressed the emotional toll on her children, who had to deal with the trauma of the wildfire evacuation followed by the violation of their home. The looters had rummaged through closets, dressers, and even pried open doors to steal personal items, leaving the family feeling unsafe and violated.
While larger valuables like bikes were left behind, the family suspects their secluded property was targeted by thieves who took advantage of the empty neighborhood during the evacuation. The RCMP confirmed that the Boucher’s home, situated on a five-acre orchard, was the only reported burglary during the evacuation period in Summerland.
Law enforcement authorities patrolled the area extensively during the evacuation orders, monitoring over 5,000 vacant homes to prevent break-ins. Despite the security measures in place, the Boucher family’s home was still targeted, leading to an ongoing investigation to recover the stolen items and provide closure for the affected family.
As the investigation progresses, the Bouchers are gradually rebuilding their sense of security and working towards restoring their home after the distressing incident of having their privacy invaded and possessions stolen without consent.