Port Alberni RCMP arrests arson suspect after forest fire sparked

The Port Alberni RCMP says a woman has been arrested and charges are being recommended after a fire was set in a forested area of the Vancouver Island community.

According to Mounties, an off-duty officer saw and reported flames in the area of the Stirling Arm Forest Service Road and Canal Main Forest Road just after 6 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 6.

Police say a suspect was found nearby and arrested.

“The fire itself was approximately half a hectare in size and is currently being held by the Mosaic and Natural Resources,” Corp. Alex Bérubé said Wednesday.

“This is a reminder that campfires and open burning are currently restricted across B.C. due to the high heat and drought-like conditions covering much of the province.”

Bérubé says the 27-year-old woman was held in custody to be brought before court on Wednesday.

The RCMP is recommending charges of arson and mischief.

“In order to arrest an individual, police have to have reasonable grounds to believe that this person has committed a criminal offence. So, in this case, police had enough information that pointed towards that person to arrest her,” Bérubé explained.

“We’re taking this matter very seriously and this is why we’re forwarding a report to Crown counsel for consideration of criminal charges. We know that wildfires can be devastating and this is why we’re taking this very seriously.”

Investigators are asking anyone who may have information to contact the Port Alberni RCMP at 250-723-2424.

-With files from Srushti Gangdev and Michael Williams