A Vernon man has been charged in connection with several 2014 arson cases in the North Okanagan.
In 2014, the community of Vernon experienced a rash of arsons, where targets ranged from; dumpsters, vehicles to boats and building structures.
“These fire incidents caused extensive property damage and a serious public safety concern for the Vernon RCMP and Vernon Fire Department,” said RCMP Cpl. Dan Moskaluk in a press release
While some incidents of arson in 2014 resulted in suspects being identified and charged, there were several other incidents that remained unsolved.
Vernon North Okanagan RCMP committed resources to investigating these unsolved arsons.
“It is the dedicated efforts of several investigators over the past two years that has resulted in charges being laid,” said Supt. Jim McNamara officer in charge of Vernon North Okanagan Detachment.
On Wednesday Vernon RCMP investigators arrested 55-year-old William Munton of Vernon, who has since been released from police custody for a future court date.
The following charges have been laid for intentionally or recklessly causing damage by fire or explosion to property:
– a Chevrolet Lumina minivan (June 22 to 29, 2014)
– a new home under construction at 8712 Hofer Drive, Coldstream (July 7 to 8, 2014)
– a duplex under construction at 2706 41st Avenue, knowing or being reckless of the fact that the property was inhabited or occupied (Oct. 16, 2014)
– tires and a trailer the property of the Go Kart Association (Nov. 20, 2014).
The Vernon RCMP are continuing their investigation and anticipate that evidence to support additional charges of arson will be forwarded for approval against a person(s) responsible.
Currently investigators are maintaining a presence at a residence in the 2000 block of 33rd St., due to the possibility of completing a search of the property in association with the ongoing arson investigations.
Anyone with information with respect to the above noted arson cases or any other investigations are asked to contact the Vernon RCMP non-emergency line at or via Crimestoppers at 1-800-222-8477.
