Update: Three Armstrong Downtown Businesses Heavily Damaged in Early Morning Fire
- Jul 15
- 2 min read
Update (July 16, 2026): Owners of the affected businesses have shared emotional firsthand accounts following the early-morning fire on July 15, 2026, in historic downtown Armstrong.
The Twisted Purl Yarn Studio posted (July 15):
“It is with an incredibly heavy heart that we share some heartbreaking news. Last night, The Twisted Purl Yarn Studio was destroyed by a devastating fire. At this time, the store has been completely lost.”
The business owners stated that their shop and inventory were completely destroyed. It is currently unknown whether any part of the historic building is salvageable.
The Wild Oak Café owners (Brian, Elizabeth, & Constance Peony) issued a moving update, noting the fire also spread to neighbouring businesses.
They wrote: “We are relieved no one was hurt and that everything else is just ‘stuff’.”The Great Wall Chinese Restaurant was also impacted but was not destroyed. It sustained smoke and water damage.
These personal statements supplement the City of Armstrong’s official media release, which confirmed all three businesses on Pleasant Valley Boulevard South were directly affected.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation.
Original Story
July 15 - According to a press release issued by the City of Armstrong on July 15, 2026, three local businesses were directly impacted by a commercial structure fire that broke out in the early morning hours on Pleasant Valley Boulevard South.
The fire affected the Wild Oak Café, Twisted Purl Yarn Studio, and Great Wall Chinese Restaurant.
The Armstrong Spallumcheen Fire Department responded quickly, supported by mutual aid from the Enderby Fire Department, BX Swan Lake Fire Department, and Vernon Fire Rescue Services.
Approximately 40 firefighters worked for several hours to bring the blaze under control and protect neighbouring properties.
Watch Video Here - https://youtu.be/7AoevYOC0IU
Fire Chief Ian McKechnie stated in the release:
“This was a devastating fire for our community, and our hearts go out to the owners, staff, and everyone affected by this loss. I want to recognize the exceptional efforts of our firefighters and our mutual aid partners, who responded quickly and worked tirelessly under challenging conditions... I am incredibly proud of the professionalism, dedication, and courage demonstrated by every responder on scene.”
The City of Armstrong expressed its appreciation to all emergency responders, RCMP, City staff, and supporting agencies for their coordinated response.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation. No injuries have been reported.The City is asking residents and visitors to continue avoiding the area while emergency crews complete their work and the scene remains secured.
Update: Three Armstrong Downtown Businesses Heavily Damaged in Early Morning Fire
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