A family in Summerland, B.C., was shocked to find their home in disarray after returning from evacuation due to the Bald Range wildfire. Instead of being destroyed by the fire, Mira Boucher discovered that their house had been looted while the community was empty and vulnerable under the evacuation order.

Upon opening the front door, Boucher and her family realized that someone had gone through their house, causing distress to the children who had already been traumatized by the wildfire evacuation. The family had recently moved into the house, and many of their belongings were still unpacked when they had to hastily evacuate as flames approached.

Upon their return, the family found their home in chaos, with items scattered and valuables such as computers, jewelry, and gaming consoles missing. The intrusion extended to personal items like birth certificates, leaving the family feeling violated and unsafe in their own space.

The Bouchers suspect that the thieves targeted their secluded property for its privacy and easier access without being noticed by authorities. Despite being the only reported incident of burglary during the evacuation period, the RCMP is actively investigating the case and working with the family to recover their belongings.

While some personal items have been found near a local bridge, the investigation is ongoing to locate the rest of the stolen items. The family is now focused on rebuilding their sense of security and returning to a sense of normalcy after the unsettling experience of having their home invaded without permission.