By Elijah Jotie

A historical landmark. An intentional act of arson. You do the math. It is well known that in September of 2024, the iconic Kamloops Red Bridge was burnt to a crisp. The question is, what happens now?

The History of the Red Bridge

After two previous Red Bridges, the third Red Bridge was built in 1936. Interestingly, the direction of foreman Paul McMaster said that the bridge should be good for over thirty years. It lasted eighty eight. Though it stood much longer than initially thought due to various repairs, the Red Bridge’s existence was threatened in 1968. The Kamloops City Council was told there were plans to dismantle the Red Bridge. Fortunately, the Mayor, Peter Wing, was able to avoid the bridge’s fate.

The Fate of the Red Bridge

On the tragic morning of September 19, 2024, bright flames grew larger and larger as they consumed the third Red Bridge. It has quickly become the mystery of the century as several questions remain unanswered. RCMP believe it was arson, though the culprit remains unknown. Interestingly, two days prior to the incident, another fire by the Red Bridge took place. Was this a message? If so, what does it mean? To this day, nothing has yet to be confirmed.

The Future of the Red Bridge

While Premier David Eby claims the Red Bridge will be replaced, the future of the iconic landmark remains open for discussion. Uncertainty lies for if and when the bridge will be rebuilt as there is much more planning required. That being said, the clean up of the remains seem to be almost finished. 

With all of this in mind, what is your take? With consideration to the historical context, the undetermined culprit’s motives, as well as the extensive efforts for planning, do you think the Red Bridge should be rebuilt? Feel free to express your opinion in the comments and let us know of any other weird stories around the city. Until then, keep it weird Kamloops!

Sources

Kamloops Red Bridge Heritage Project

Potestio, M. (2025, January 6). Red Bridge rebuild not a guarantee yet, as province starts lengthy planning process – kamloops news. Castanet. https://www.castanetkamloops.net/news/Kamloops/526007/Red-Bridge-rebuild-not-a-guarantee-yet-as-province-starts-lengthy-planning-process