Senior Dies After Early-Morning House Fire in North Burnaby

A tragic overnight house fire in North Burnaby has claimed the life of a senior woman after flames tore through a home in the Capitol Hill neighbourhood.

According to the original report published on December 17, 2019, a woman in her 70s died after a fire broke out at a residence on Dundas Street near Ranelagh Avenue. The BC Coroners Service has confirmed it is investigating the circumstances surrounding her death.
👉 You can read the full original coverage from CTV News here:

Senior dead after North Burnaby house fire

What Happened

Fire crews were called to the home just before 1 a.m. following reports of heavy flames. By the time firefighters arrived, the house was already fully engulfed, and emergency responders were informed that a person was trapped inside.

Burnaby Fire Department crews immediately entered the burning structure in rescue mode.

“Crews went into rescue mode,” said Chris Bowcock, deputy chief with the Burnaby Fire Department. “We committed a significant number of companies to the interior of the building to locate, find, and remove that individual from the inside. That rescue was successful under heavy fire conditions.”

Firefighters were able to locate and remove the woman from the home. Crews were seen performing cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) near the residence, but despite their efforts, the woman did not survive her injuries.

“Our crews did everything they could,” Bowcock added.

Others Escaped the Fire

Officials say one other person managed to escape the home without serious injuries and was transported to hospital as a precaution. Around 30 firefighters were involved in battling the blaze, and damage to the home was described as extensive.

“Because of the individual inside, we really focused on that piece of it—priority of life,” Bowcock explained. “Curtailing the damage from the fire was of secondary purpose to us.”

Burnaby RCMP remained on scene into the early morning hours as investigators secured the area. The cause of the fire has not yet been determined.

Why CPR and Emergency Training Matters

House fires and other emergencies can escalate rapidly, often leaving little time to react. While first responders act as quickly as possible, early lifesaving efforts such as CPR can play a Critical role during medical emergencies.

Be Prepared to Help in an Emergency

Being prepared does not prevent tragedies, but it can improve outcomes in critical moments. First aid and CPR training equips individuals with practical, hands-on skills to respond effectively during emergencies.

Learn More About CPR and First Aid

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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