Lithium ion batteries ‘number one’ cause of fire-related deaths in Vancouver, officials say

(Source: CTV News Vancouver)

Fires caused by lithium ion batteries have claimed the lives of five people in Vancouver so far this year, according to officials.

The most recent death occurred Saturday after an explosion and fire that are believed to have been caused by an e-bike battery at the Empress Hotel, an SRO on the Downtown Eastside.

“(The victim) just happened to be sitting in the wrong place at the wrong time and he fell out the window due to the explosion,” Asst. Chief Walter Pereira told CTV News.

“Either he lost his footing or was sent out the window due to the subsequent explosion.”