Kamloops, Canada - September 19, 2024

The city of Kamloops, British Columbia, was struck by tragedy as the historic Red Bridge, an 88-year-old wooden structure, was destroyed by fire early Thursday morning, leading to its collapse into the South Thompson River. The fire, reported around 3:10 a.m. PT, on September 19th not only marked the end of an architectural relic but also severed a significant connection between downtown Kamloops and the Tk'emlups Indian Band reserve.

Witness accounts, including video footage captured by Nevada Woods and shared on social media, depict the dramatic moment when the bridge, engulfed in flames, collapsed into the river. "I looked out my window and saw smoke plumes," Woods described, capturing the scene from a nearby vantage point, "You could see a little bit of an orange hue." This visual record not only documents the event but also conveys the shock felt by the community.

The Red Bridge, beyond its functional role, symbolized unity and history for Kamloops. Its loss has been met with profound sadness by community leaders. Tk̓emlups te Secwepemc Kukpi7 Rosanne Casimir noted, "This loss brings many emotions, critical conversations, and new challenges," reflecting on the bridge's cultural significance.


The loss of the Red Bridge has sparked not only an investigation into its cause but also a broader conversation about the future of this historic connection. Kamloops RCMP, in collaboration with fire investigators, are diligently working to uncover whether the fire was an act of arson or another suspicious activity, following another smaller fire just days before.

Mayor Reid Hamer-Jackson, reflecting on the bridge's significance, expressed hopes for its rebuilding, not just as infrastructure but as a testament to the resilience of the community. "This bridge was more than a crossing; it was a link between communities, a part of our history," he remarked, echoing sentiments felt widely across Kamloops.

The incident's impact extends beyond immediate structural loss. Environmental concerns have arisen, particularly with the salmon spawning season underway. There's uncertainty about how the debris from the bridge might affect the salmon's ability to navigate the river, adding another layer of complexity to the recovery efforts.

As investigations continue, the city is taking proactive steps to ensure public safety, closing off areas near the river due to potential hazards from the bridge's debris. The cleanup and eventual restoration of the site will be significant undertakings, requiring not just financial investment but also community consensus on how best to honor the bridge's legacy.