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Richmond bridge fire investigation delayed due to access issues

Hot spots were dealt with by Richmond Fire-Rescue over the weekend.

Richmond Fire-Rescue investigators have yet to start investigating the cause of the large fire that burned through an empty dock area and historic bridge last Thursday evening.

Grant Wyenberg, assistant deputy chief at Richmond Fire-Rescue, said they cannot comment on the cause or origin of the fire because investigation staff have not been able "to access the entire site."

"We are having the site assessed to identify where we can and cannot access," said Wyenberg.

"Once we have assessed the structures and isolated any hazards, we will be able to report back on any findings."

The site is currently blocked off with metal fences and cones.

Wyenberg said crews will regularly check the site for any spot fires or intruders in the area.

Firefighters started battling the large industrial fire around 8 p.m. on Thursday, June 20 on River Drive, near the River Rock Casino, and needed help from the Vancouver fire boat for the trestle bridge fire over the Fraser River.

Crews fought the bridge fire until 5 a.m. on Friday morning.

Wyenberg told the Richmond News that they were dealing with hot spots over the weekend, but, on Monday, tools and equipment were being removed.

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