‘Suspicious’ fire in Faust leaves woman homeless

Chris Clegg
South Peace News

A Faust resident is homeless but safe after a fire at her home Feb. 29. Evelyn Rumley says the fire started within minutes after an intruder entered her home around 5 a.m. “I called 9-1-1 and the operator told me to get out,” says Rumley. She adds the cause of the fire is still under investigation by authorities. “I’ve had the adjusters come in and the fire investigator has been in,” says Rumley, who is staying with Wilfred and Ethel Ruecker. “My house is all boarded up.” When interviewed March 2, Rumley had not returned to her home to see how extensive the damage is. At the time, the fire was still under investigation meaning no one was allowed into the site. M.D. of Big Lakes fire chief John Gould confirms the fire is under investigation. He says the house was saved because of the quick reaction of Faust and Kinuso firefighters. “There is a criminal investigation by the RCMP and the Fire Commissioner’s Office,” says Gould. The fire is one of three in the last month in Faust. Gould cautions residents there is no evidence an arsonist is on the loose. “There is no pattern of arson in the (three) Faust fires,” says Gould, adding one fire has already proven to be started in a chimney. Rumley’s house was fully insured. Gould says the house was saved but the insurance company will decide if it’s better to repair the damage or rebuild. Gould reminds everyone to call 9-1-1 and leave any house when it’s on fire, just as Rumley did. Gould also advises everyone to ensure their wood-burning appliances are clean- ed and inspected by a qualified inspector to make sure they are safe and provide no fire hazard.

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