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‘They’re going through the worst’: 2 couples devastated by Peachland house fire

Four people and several pets escaped the blaze
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Damage to a Coldham Road home in Peachland following an early morning fire on May 18, 2024. (Gary Barnes/Capital News)

The only thing Tristan Brigden and Rozander St Jean could think about after losing their Peachland home in a fire, was the well-being of their upstairs neighbours.

Brigden said their friends (Alexa and Jay) are devastated following the May 18 blaze that burned through a house on Coldham Road.

“They’re going through the worst, they lost everything. The entire top half of the house is gone.”

The fire started around 4 a.m. Saturday.

“Rosie heard the crackling, I looked outside and everything was lit up orange,” Brigden said. I went into the back yard and the roof was lit up in flames.”

Everyone got out immediately, although Brigden said his friend did suffer injuries trying to put out the fire to save the home.

Several animals escaped the blaze including Brigden and St-Jean’s dog, three cats, two birds and a snake. One of their friends’ cats is missing but is thought to be in the neighbourhood.

Brigden said he and St Jean had only lived in the house for seven months, while their friends have been there 13 years.

They are asking the public to support a GoFundMe set-up for their neighbours.

Brigden added that he and St Jean have received help from Emergency Support Services and are staying in a hotel.

“We’re trying to get in touch with the Red Cross to see if we can prolong the stay, so we’re not intruding on anybody’s lives and rebuild.”

The cause of the blaze is under investigation by Peachland Fire Rescue.

GoFundMe for Alexa and Jay

GoFundMe for Tristan and Rosie

READ MORE: Fundraisers started for Peachland roommates following house fire



Gary Barnes

About the Author: Gary Barnes

Journalist and broadcaster for three decades.
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