The RCMP have concluded their investigation into the 2017 Elephant Hill wildfire and turned the file over to the BC Prosecution Service.
“This was a complex file that took the time necessary given the scope and scale of the investigation,” RCMP Staff. Sgt. Janelle Shoihet tells The Journal.
“We will continue to address any additional requirements they may have as part of the charge assessment process.”
Shoihet says that process is also a complex one.
“They have to review all the investigative findings and see what charges would be appropriate. We’re committed that if they need further information, we’ll provide that as they move forward.”
Shoihet says the case is the largest wildfire investigation she can remember.
The investigation began when the wildfire, near Ashcroft in the central interior, expanded in size on July 7, 2017.
The fire destroyed more than 200 homes and buildings, forced the evacuation of thousands of people, and burned more than 192,000 hectares. It was not completely contained until late September 2017.
Early on, authorities determined it had been human-caused.
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