House severely damaged in Pitt Meadows fire
Published 12:58 pm Monday, May 4, 2026
One house was severely damaged but the neighbouring residence was saved by Pitt Meadows firefighters who were on the scene in the nick of time.
“They arrived just in time to save our house,” said Betty Varto, at the same time expressing regrets for her neighbouring family.
Their home was the origin of the fire, and flame was shooting high into the sky that night.
Early Sunday morning, May 3, at approximately 12:30 a.m. the fire broke out at a house on 117 A Avenue, and spread to a neighbouring residence.
From the street, everything appears to be normal but for a blue fence around one house. From the back, however, the damage can be seen to be severe.
Everyone got out of the houses safely, noted Varto.
There were social media reports expressing appreciation for the good neighbours in Pitt Meadows. Friends came out in the early morning hours to offer the fire victims support, including footwear, comfort for children, help to control pets, and assistance moving vehicles. They also opened their homes.
Betty and her husband J.P. had celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary earlier in the day, and had family visiting for the occasion. Betty was worried about her grandchildren, aged 10 and 12, and was relieved when a neighbour took them onto her porch and gave them comfort.
“The neighbours were great, and they took us in,” said JP.
The burned out families were taken to the Best Western hotel. The Vartos were able to return to their house the next morning, finding melted siding and some exterior burn damage.
However, their neighbours’ home will need a lot of work.