RCMP arrests a person for starting a fire in Princeton

As much of the province continues to suffer from drought conditions, prompting municipalities to place fire bans in most communities; RCMP have been vigilant keeping an eye on those who start wildfires throughout the province.

On Thursday, Aug. 13 it was announced that Princeton RCMP have made an arrest this week in connection to a fire started in an open area on Similkameen Avenue in Princeton on Sunday Aug. 9.

RCMP report in a statement that they received a 911 call of a fire and Princeton Fire department immediately responded to the location and extinguished the small fire. There was no damage to any structure or property.

With the help of community members, investigators identified a suspect who was arrested and held for charge consideration. The suspect was subsequently released on conditions.

“Any report of a fire starting will get our full attention” said Staff Sergeant Dan Pollock, Regional Operations Officer of the Penticton South Okanagan Similkameen Regional Detachment. “Any activities that escalate wildfire danger are strictly prohibited and will be addressed immediately. In the context of the province wide state of emergency and the recent evacuations, there will be zero tolerance for any actions that jeopardize public safety.”

No further details were released.