Prince Rupert RCMP and the Prince Rupert Fire Rescue Department are actively investigating three separate vehicle fires that have been deemed suspicious in nature.
Between June 11 and 14, emergency responders were called to three vehicle fires all occurring in the early morning hours.
“At this stage it appears as though these events are not isolated and may be related to one or more individuals,” said Const. Matt Ericson, spokesperson for the Prince Rupert RCMP.
The first incident occurred on June 11 at approximately 4:35 a.m., with RCMP and firefighters receiving a complaint of a single vehicle fire in the 200 block of 7th Avenue East. Upon investigation, it was determined that the fire was deliberately set.
Then, later that morning at approximately 5:40 a.m., another complaint was received, this time regarding a vehicle fire in the 600 block of 7th Avenue East. Due to the extensive amount of damage to the vehicle, fire investigators were unable to determine the cause.
RCMP and fire crews were dispatched to a third complaint regarding a single vehicle fire at approximately 4:20 a.m. on June 14, this time in the 1000 block of Chamberlain Avenue. Once again, investigators determined the fire had been deliberately set.
Prince Rupert RCMP are now asking community members to be vigilant and to report any suspicious activity, especially in the early morning hours.
“Currently the Prince Rupert RCMP and Fire Department are actively investigating; however we are also looking for any additional information from the community to assist investigators,” said Ericson.
Anyone with information on the incidents is asked to contact the Prince Rupert RCMP detachment at 250-627-0700 or anonymously to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477. Individuals providing information that leads to an arrest, the recovery of stolen property or seizure of illicit drugs through Crime Stoppers is eligible for a cash award.
