In a statement released by Vernon North Okanagan RCMP, an investigation is on it’s way for two wildfires that occurred in the Westwold area yesterday.
The report came in Monday, May 2nd, 2022, shortly after 2:30 p.m about a unknown person “lighting slash piles” on fire in the Westwold area. Slash piles is the left over tree limbs, leaves, pine needles caused wind storms, natural weather and forest management activities.
One fire started on Douglas Lake Road and a second on Westwold Station Forest Service Road. Personnel from the BC Wildfire Service were dispatched to the area in response to the reports and quickly and successfully contained the fires preventing their spread.
According to police during the initial response the general public reached out to 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.
Constable Chris Terleski stated the destruction caused by wildfires last year and says they are “incredibly concerned that someone would be intentionally starting these fires,” He acknowledge how unsettling this is for residents and they are actively investigating the incidents. The police are asking anyone with information that may help in furthering the investigation to contact them.
“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.” the RCMP worte in a media release
