North Okanagan RCMP investigating after slash piles set ablaze near Westwold

Photo: Contributed

Police are looking for a blue truck that may be associated with a pair of suspicious fires in the Westwold area.

On May 2, shortly after 2:30 p.m., police received a report that an unknown person was lighting slash piles on fire, says Vernon-North Okanagan RCMP spokesperson Const. Chris Terleski.

One fire was set on Douglas Lake Road, and a second on Westwold Station Forest Service Road.

“Personnel from the BC Wildfire Service responded and quickly and successfully contained the fires, preventing their spread,” Terleski said in a press release issued Tuesday.

During their initial response, police received unconfirmed reports a small, blue pickup being driven by a woman was seen leaving the vicinity of both fires.

Multiple units and the RCMP Air Services helicopter searched for the vehicle without success.

No additional information on the vehicle or suspect has been uncovered.

"We’re incredibly concerned that someone would be intentionally starting these fires," said Terleski. "After the destruction and devastation caused by wildfires last year, we appreciate and understand how terribly unsettling this is for residents. We’re actively investigating the incidents and are appealing to the public for any information that may help us in furthering this investigation."

Anyone who was in the area and witnessed anything suspicious, or has information related to the fires or the suspect vehicle is asked to contact the Enderby RCMP office at 250-838-6818 and quote police file NR2022-2366.

To report a wildfire, dial *5555 or 1-800-663-5555.