Private security firm discovers large fire under Hwy. 1 overpass in Hope, notifies authorities

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Slater says Hope firefighters quickly brought the blaze under control. The fire wound up destroying what appeared to be an encampment structure beneath the overpass.

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Proactive community patrols

Private security firm discovers large fire under Hwy. 1 overpass in Hope, notifies authorities

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The remnants of the encampment under the Trans-Canada Highway overpass. (Image Credit: Valley Protection Services.)

Mindful of the large wildfire happening right now in the Fraser Canyon, Slater said this particular fire could have easily spread to nearby trees and other vegetation.

“This is another example of how contracted security services play a vital role in community safety,” Slater said. “With the devastating wildfires already impacting areas near Boston Bar, the last thing our community needs is another uncontrolled fire. Our officers identified the hazard early, ensured public safety, notified the appropriate emergency agencies, and remained on scene until the incident was under control. This is exactly why VPS exists—to proactively protect our community and support our emergency services when every minute matters.”

Valley Protection Services says it conducts proactive patrols throughout Hope, identifies potential hazards, responds to various emergencies, and works alongside local first responders to help keep the community safe.

Earlier this year, the District of Hope announced in January 2026 that it would utilize private security due to repeated instances of wire theft from streetlights.

Downtown Hope. (Image Credit: District of Hope.)

In a statement, the district said incidents of wire theft started in the Richmond Hill area and had spread to Park Street and 4th Avenue.

In the aftermath of the repeated criminal incidents, municipal public works crews assessed and repaired the damage, but the theft of underground wiring caused repeated disruptions and safety concerns. As a result, a private security company had been contracted since December 2025 to actively patrol the impacted areas.