Police investigating wildfires

Vernon North Okanagan

2022-05-03 10:21 PDT

File # 2022-2366

stock image blue background suspicious fire in text

The Vernon North Okanagan RCMP are investigating the suspicious circumstances surrounding two wildfires that occurred in the Westwold area yesterday.

On Monday, May 2nd, 2022, shortly after 2:30 p.m., the Vernon North Okanagan RCMP received a report an unknown person was lighting slash piles on fire in the Westwold area, one on Douglas Lake Road and a second on Westwold Station Forest Service Road. Personnel from the BC Wildfire Service responded and quickly and successfully contained the fires preventing their spread.

During their initial response, police received unconfirmed reports that a small blue pickup truck being driven by a woman, was seen leaving the vicinity of both burns. Multiple frontline officers, as well as an RCMP Air Services Helicopter engaged in a search for the suspect vehicle, however, it was not located. No additional information on the vehicle or suspect has been uncovered.

"We’re incredibly concerned that someone would be intentionally starting these fires," states Constable Chris Terleski, Media Relations Officer for the Vernon North Okanagan RCMP. "After the destruction and devastation caused by wildfires last year, we appreciate and understand how terribly unsettling this is for residents. We’re actively investigating the incidents and are appealing to the public for any information that may help us in furthering this investigation."

If you were in the area and witnessed anything suspicious, or have information related to the fires or the suspect vehicle, small blue pickup truck, please contact the Enderby office of the Vernon North Okanagan RCMP and quote police file NR2022-2366. Remember, any suspicious activity should be reported immediately and directly to police.

To report a wildfire, dial *5555 or 1-800-663-5555
 

 

Released by

Cst. Chris Terleski

Media Relations Officer
Vernon North Okanagan RCMP
3402 30th St, Vernon, B.C. V1T 5E5
Office: 250-260-7161
Fax: 250-260-7191

Email: christopher.terleski@rcmp-grc.gc.ca

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