RCMP are seeking assistance as investigators work to identify the source of the Summerland wildfire. The fire was sparked on Friday.

Investigators are working to determine the cause of the wildfire and are examining all reports of suspicious activity which may have led to the start of the fire.

They are looking to review any dashcam footage, videos, photos and information from Friday afternoon.

Police are aware of several videos and misinformation circulating on social media in which an individual is observed lighting a bear banger.

Investigators have determined the incident on video occurred kilometers away from the fire origin area.

The public is being cautioned against making false statements and to stop the continuation of misinformation on social media.

The evacuation order for the District of Summerland remains in effect.

Police are reminding residents that the area remains closed for access and the closure is being strictly enforced by RCMP officers at checkpoints and patrols.

In the afternoon of Sunday, August 9, 2026, one man was arrested within the evacuated order area of Summerland.

The Province is working with local partners to surge support into the Penticton area.

To date, it has booked more than 1,000 hotel rooms in Penticton, Kelowna and West Kelowna, which are available for evacuees.

Group lodging is also available in communities throughout the Okanagan with nearly 1,000 beds set up.

Anyone with information regarding the origin of the Summerland (Bald Range) wildfire should contact the Penticton South Okanagan Similkameen Regional RCMP Detachment at 250-492-4300.

Digital footage, videos and photos can be submitted by email at baldrangereporting@rcmp-grc.gc.ca.