RCMP seek information on suspicious Duncan fire

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The aftermath of a fire in a small area in between the seniors’ residence and the Dairy Queen around 5 a.m. on Aug. 19. (Submitted photo)The aftermath of a fire in a small area in between the seniors’ residence and the Dairy Queen around 5 a.m. on Aug. 19. (Submitted photo)

North Cowichan Duncan RCMP are currently investigating a suspicious fire which occurred in Duncan early Saturday morning.

At approximately 5 a.m. on Aug. 19, officers from the North Cowichan/Duncan RCMP along with members from the Duncan fire department responded to a suspicious fire between two buildings in the 300-block of the Trans Canada Highway.

The fire is believed to have started at the bushes located behind the building.

The small fire was able to spread rapidly and briefly jumped to the trim of a nearby residential building.

The fire was extinguished quickly by the Duncan fire department.

“The initial investigation indicates this was a suspicious occurrence,” says Staff Sergeant Ken Beard.

“I encourage anyone who may have witnessed this incident or has information about the fire to speak to investigators immediately.”

Duncan Mayor Michelle Staples said her heart goes out to the people impacted by the fire and fear caused when the alarms sounded early in the morning.

“We are thankful for the dedication and courage of our firefighters and first responders who attended and extinguished the flames,” she said.

“We will remain in close contact with the RCMP regarding the investigation now underway and update the community as the information comes available.”

Anyone with any information or surveillance footage capturing suspicious activity from the nearby areas of the 300-block Trans Canada Highway is asked to call the North Cowichan/Duncan RCMP at 250-548-5522.

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