VANCOUVER Fire and Rescue Services (VFRS) confirmed on Friday evevning that a second body had been located during the demolition of Gastown’s Winters Hotel at 203 Abbott Street.

The VFRS said that through the process, investigators and the demolition crew have been mindful individuals may be in the building, and have been proceeding with appropriate precaution and care.

As with the first instance, the investigation has been referred by VFRS to the Vancouver Police Department (VPD) who engaged the BC Coroners Service. The Coroner is on route to the scene.

Building demolition has paused for the weekend and will resume on Monday. Electrical power will be restored to the neighbourhood through the weekend. Security fencing and security staff will remain in place throughout the weekend.

On April 11, a fire ravaged Winters Hotel. The building was deemed structurally unsound and ordered demolished by the City’s Chief Building Official on April 12. Demolition of the building began on April 21.