Lillooet man sues neighbour over 2020 grass fire that spread to his property

Photo: BC Wildfire Service

This BC Wildfire Service map shows the approximate location of a grass fire in Lillooet on Aug. 9, 2020.

A Lillooet man is suing his neighbour, seeking $30,000 for damage caused by a “negligent” grass fire that spread to his property on a summer day more than two years ago.

Robert Louis Papp has filed a notice of claim in Kamloops small claims court against Frederick John Kay.

According to Papp, Kay “negligently” ignited a fire on his Hollywood Crescent property on Aug. 9, 2020. Papp said the blaze spread to neighbouring properties, including one he owns.

Papp claims the fire damaged his property to the tune of $30,000.

The BC Wildfire Service mapped the fire at nearly a hectare in size. At the time, the agency said no structures were damaged or threatened. Fire crews said they made quick work of the blaze.

Once he is served, Kay will have 14 days to file a reply.

None of the allegations have been proven in court.