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Island Outfitters 'devastated' by fire, thankful for support

Island Outfitters officials say they are “devastated” by the Jan. 4 fire at their Douglas Street store and the severe damage it caused, but are thankful for the response from the public.
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Saanich fire crews battle a blaze Saturday at Island Outfitters that has temporarily shut down the fishing and hunting store near Mayfair mall.

Island Outfitters officials say they are “devastated” by the Jan. 4 fire at their Douglas Street store and the severe damage it caused, but are thankful for the response from the public.

They said they have been “inundated with expressions of concern and condolence.”

“The business community has also stepped up without hesitation, offering jobs to many of our employees at this difficult time of upheaval and disruption in their lives.”

The statement also thanked the police officers and firefighters who responded to the blaze, which started in storage sheds behind the store.

“We’ll be rebuilding our business as soon as possible,” it said.

The statement said Island Outfitters plans to attend to customers who have outstanding business with them. “Many people have gift cards and are looking to spend them with us, others have pending firearm transfers and consignment sales.”

Fishing derbies and the weekly fishing report will not be disrupted, and the fishing charter side of the business has not been affected.

Two charter boats are run out of Victoria year-round and three out of Port Renfrew starting in May.

No one was hurt in the fire.

The Victoria police and fire departments are investigating.

— Times Colonist