The Penticton South Okanagan Similkameen Regional RCMP Detachment is seeking the public’s assistance as investigators work to identify the source of the Summerland (Bald Range) wildfire.
On August 7, the Penticton RCMP General Investigative Services (GIS) team responded to reports of a fast-moving wildfire in the Summerland area.
Investigators are working to determine the cause of the wildfire and are examining all reports of suspicious activity which may have led to the start of the fire.
Police are looking to speak to any witnesses, who may have observed any actions or activities around Princeton-Summerland Road and Bathville Road, near and in the Crump Recreation site and the Trout Creek Recreation site.
RCMP are looking to review any dashcam footage, videos, photos and information from August 7, beginning in the afternoon hours.
Mounties are aware of several videos and misinformation circulating on social media in which an individual is observed lighting a non-lethal wildlife deterrent device (commonly known as a bear banger).
Investigators have identified the individual in question, who is considered a witness and not a suspect. Mounties determined the incident on video occurred kilometers away from the fire origin area.
The public is cautioned against making false statements and to stop the continuation of misinformation on social media.
The evacuation order for the District of Summerland remains in effect. The Penticton RCMP, with supports from neighbouring RCMP detachments and Natural Resource Officers (NRO) from BC Conservation Services who are actively patrolling areas currently within the evacuation order, checking in on properties and businesses.
Police are reminding residents the area remains closed for access and the closure is being strictly enforced by RCMP officers at checkpoints and patrols. On Sunday (August 9) afternoon, one man was arrested within the evacuated order area of Summerland.
Anyone with information regarding the origin of the Summerland (Bald Range) wildfire should contact the Penticton South Okanagan Similkameen Regional RCMP Detachment at 250-492-4300.
Digital footage, videos and photos can be submitted by email to baldrangereporting@rcmp-grc.gc.ca.
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