Half a dozen people have been injured and one man is in critical condition after three separate incidents where accelerants were poured on fires.
"All incidents are being investigated by the Squamish RCMP, and those who are responsible may be facing criminal charges" stated Cpl. Sascha Banks in a news release. "We are extremely concerned about the number of incidents reported and educating the public on fire safety is paramount to prevent further injuries."
For the first incident, Squamish RCMP say three individuals were injured on March 4 when gasoline was poured on a bonfire in Brackendale.
The second and third incidents happened on March 16.
The second occasion, police say, was on Lewis Drive where two people were seriously injured after what was thought to be paint thinner was poured on an open fire.
The container burst into flames, RCMP say.
One man remains in critical condition.
The third incident was a campfire at a park in Brackendale where a girl suffered extensive burns after an accelerant was poured on the fire, igniting the container and spreading the flames, police say.
Squamish fire chief Bill Stoner along with Squamish Fire Rescue is in engaged with the Squamish RCMP and the Squamish community as a whole for education and prevention on this issue.
"Pouring flammable liquids on burning fires may seem like an inconsequential event, but this action can create extreme fire conditions which may cause excruciating burns and possible disfigurement,” stated Stoner in a news release. “The consequences could stay with a person for life; it’s not worth the risk."
If anyone has any questions regarding Fire Safety please contact the Squamish Fire Rescue at [email protected] or call 604-898-9666.
Those with information who may contribute to the RCMP investigation are asked to call the Squamish RCMP at 604-892-6100 or if they wish to remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS, text 274637, or go to www.solvecrime.ca
