Vancouver Rundown Friday July 4, 2025
Summary
This week’s wildfire north of Lytton was caused by an RCMP vehicle. The Mounties now admit that an equipment failure on a trailer being towed by a police vehicle started the Izman Creek wildfire, 18 km north of Lytton. Three properties in the area have been evacuated while the Lytton First Nation has issued an evacuation alert for others. Meanwhile, BC Wildfire is dealing with several other small fires including one that broke out near Hope Thursday afternoon.
Other news…
Two arrests have now been made in recent extortions involving South Asian business people in Surrey and other areas of the Lower Mainland. Names of the two Surrey residents have not been released pending formal charges. Dozens of business people have received phone threats demanding millions of dollars - several shootings and arsons are blamed on organized crime.
Thousands of recovering alcoholics have arrived for an international conference in Vancouver. More than 30,000 people from 90 countries are in the city for the AA conference which runs through Sunday. The Vancouver Convention Centre and BC Place are the main venues.
Hawksworth Restaurant is set to open a concept eatery in the building that’s housed The Boathouse at Kitsilano Beach. The deal comes months ahead of the end of The Boathouse’s lease with the City of Vancouver. The new lease will be for 10 years with an option to extend it.
A few clouds Friday and Saturday. Sunny and warm for Sunday. Here are the latest conditions from our private weather station in Surrey.
Top five stories to know
Vancouver Sun: New Lytton wildfire accidentally caused by RCMP vehicle
CTV: 2 arrested amid investigation into extortion of South Asian businesses in B.C.’s Lower Mainland
Surrey Now-Leader: Surrey acupuncturist who sexually assaulted clients loses licence for 30 years
Global News: Passengers at Vancouver airport report tense moments amid NAV Canada bomb threat
Business stories to know
CBC: Thousands arrive in Vancouver for international Alcoholics Anonymous conference
Business In Vancouver: Richmond man in securities charges trial worried about investment club scam
Opinion
Journalism matters
That’s cool
Daily Hive: Owen Wilson just spotted at much-loved Vancouver seafood and cocktail bar
Bonus
Vancouver Is Awesome: B.C. broadcaster Jody Vance wins default judgment against online harasser