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January 18.2026

2 Minutes Read

Fire Destroys School on Blueberry River First Nation: Community Gathers to Rebuild

Fire destroys school on Blueberry River First Nation at night.

Morning Blaze Destroys a Community Hub

In the early hours of Saturday, January 17, 2026, a fire swept through the Blueberry Community School on Blueberry River First Nation, located just north of Fort St. John. Responding to emergency calls, the local RCMP found the building fully engulfed in flames, and despite immediate action, there was no saving the structure. Thankfully, there were no reported injuries, a glimmer of good news amid a devastating loss for this close-knit community.

A Building of Many Roles

The Blueberry Community School was much more than an educational facility; it served as a cultural and social hub for the Blueberry River First Nation. Leadership from the community expressed deep sorrow over the loss of a place where various events, from gatherings to adult education programs, had taken place for decades. “This is a tremendous loss for the community,” they stated in an official release.

Insufficient Firefighting Resources

One significant factor contributing to the school’s loss was the limited firefighting resources available to the First Nation. Due to its location, the Blueberry River is outside the Peace River Regional District's fire protection zones, limiting their access to adequate fire suppression capabilities. The community’s firefighting team struggled against the blaze due to insufficient water supply, which greatly hampered their ability to combat the flames effectively. Leadership noted, “Due to the lack of water, the building could not be saved.”

Looking Ahead: Rebuilding and Resilience

Despite the difficulties ahead, the leadership of the Blueberry River First Nation remains committed to rebuilding. Their swift response has demonstrated resilience, and they have voiced plans to investigate the cause of the fire, stating they possess high-definition video footage capturing its origins. The community stands ready to come together not just to mourn but to rise from the ashes of this tragedy.

Community Calls for Support

As the First Nation begins to plan for rebuilding efforts, there may be opportunities for public support and engagement. Organizations and individuals alike are encouraged to keep an eye on further announcements about how they can help. Community bonding shines in times of need, and every effort towards rebuilding will be a testament to their strength and unity.

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