Sea to Sky RCMP is investigating three suspicious fires near Highway 99 and has arrested a 29-year-old man for arson.
The fires occurred early on August 22 on the west side of Highway 99 between Squamish and Whistler. Shortly after midnight, Squamish RCMP received several reports of a fast-spreading fire.
After speaking with witnesses, officers obtained information about a man who may have been involved. Police later located and arrested the suspect. The allegation has not been proven in court, and RCMP did not say whether charges have been approved.
Investigators worked with the BC Conservation Officer Service, natural resource officers and the BC Wildfire Service. Provincial wildfire origin-and-cause investigators confirmed there were three separate fires along the north end of the Sea to Sky Trail as it approaches Highway 99 near Cheakamus Canyon. All three fires have been declared out.
“With the province facing such a precarious fire season, these types of incidents are incredibly concerning,” said Sgt. Jeff Shore of Sea to Sky RCMP Investigative Services.
Anyone who was in the area at the time, or has dashcam footage, photographs or other information, is asked to call Squamish RCMP at 604-892-6100.
