Man Dies Despite CPR After Antique Store Fire in Qualicum Beach

A tragic fire at Remember That Collectibles has claimed the life of a man despite rapid firefighting efforts and the immediate delivery of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). The blaze broke out Friday morning at approximately 10:30 a.m. at the antique store located at 127 Fern Rd. in Qualicum Beach.

The incident followed another serious structure fire in Nanaimo earlier the same weekend, where one person was injured and 18 residents were displaced. Together, these events highlight how quickly fires can escalate and the vital importance of emergency response and life-saving skills.

Firefighters Encounter Heavy Smoke During Search

Fire crews responding to the Qualicum Beach fire were met with thick smoke inside the single-storey building. During the initial sweep, firefighters located the store owner’s dog, which was removed from the structure and successfully resuscitated by paramedics.

During a secondary sweep, crews discovered the store’s owner in a room at the back of the building, approximately six metres from the fire’s origin. Fire officials later confirmed that visibility inside the building was extremely limited, making rescue efforts especially challenging.

CPR Initiated Immediately, Pulse Briefly Restored

The man was quickly removed from the building, and firefighters began CPR without delay. According to Fire Chief Darryl Kohse, responders were able to restore a pulse for a short period of time. Tragically, despite these efforts, the man died while awaiting air transport to hospital.

While the coroner has not yet confirmed the official cause of death, smoke inhalation is believed to be a significant factor. Authorities also reported that the building contained a densely packed warehouse of collectibles and furniture, which likely contributed to intense smoke conditions.

Fire Contained Within 30 Minutes

Firefighters were able to contain the blaze within approximately 30 minutes. The structure remains standing but sustained damage to interior walls and the roof, with most remaining damage caused by smoke. Volunteer firefighters from Dashwood and Coombs-Hilliers assisted in suppressing the fire.

Investigators believe a faulty or misused electrical appliance may have caused the fire, though the investigation remains ongoing.

Nanaimo Apartment Fire Displaces 18 Residents

Earlier in the weekend, a separate fire broke out in a five-unit apartment building on Sabiston Street in Nanaimo. One unit was fully engulfed when firefighters arrived shortly before 1 a.m. Although all occupants escaped, one person suffered burns, and 18 residents were displaced due to extensive smoke damage and loss of power.

Fire officials described the incident as serious but credited the coordinated emergency response for preventing further injuries.

Why CPR Training Matters in Fire Emergencies

These incidents underscore how unpredictable and dangerous structure fires can be. While CPR cannot always overcome severe smoke inhalation, immediate action can temporarily restore circulation and provide a critical window for advanced medical care.

Knowing how to recognize cardiac arrest and perform CPR correctly can make a life-saving difference during emergencies involving fires, overdoses, or sudden medical collapse. That’s why enrolling in CPR and AED training is an essential step for anyone who wants to be prepared.

Source and Further Reading

This post is based on reporting originally published by the Vancouver Sun. You can read the full original article here for additional details:
👉 One injured, 18 displaced in Nanaimo fire; man dies in blaze at Qualicum Beach antique store,

Be Prepared Before an Emergency Happens

Fire emergencies can develop in seconds. Gaining first aid and CPR skills empowers individuals to act confidently and effectively when every moment matters.

About The Author

Mark Kascha

Certified First Aid Instructor Trainer with 30+ years of real-world experience, including lifeguarding, workplace emergency response, and first aid program development across Canada. Has worked with WorkSafeBC, WSIB, and Manitoba Health.

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Last reviewed: March 2026

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