RCMP investigators have determined that the July 15th Okanagan Centre wildfire in Lake Country was intentionally set and is being treated as a criminal case of arson.
The RCMP investigation unit is asking for a particular group to come forward that would have been in the area that day.
According to Cpl. Dan Moskaluk, two groups were in the area and one has already come forward with information.
Photo Credit: KelownaNow
The second group would have been using a recreational area near the place where the fire started along Okanagan Centre Road.
"They would have made observations in the early stages of the fire where it would have been much smaller in stature. So if that group recognizes that description, certainly we would like to speak with them," said Cpl. Moskaluk.
Photo Credit: KelownaNow
RCMP a set up a tip line at the start of the investigation and received more than a dozen tips within the first 24-48 hours.
The investigation is ongoing and RCMP is asking anyone who saw anything or has any footage of the day that hasn't yet called the tip line, to do so.
The tip line is dedicated to the investigation of the Okanagan Centre wildfire and can be reached at: 250-707-8025.
Photo credit: Kayla Fiorilli
Investigators on the case are looking for video or picture footage from dash cams, phones, or cameras of anyone in the Okanagan Centre Road area on Saturday, July 15th, or from anyone passing through Lake Country that day before, during or after the fire.
"Arson is considered a criminal code offense. It's a serious offense that can carry a substantial jail time," said Cpl. Moskaluk.
Photo credit: Debbie Lowey
What started as an investigation under the Lake Country RCMP detachment has now grown and is utilizing resources from the Kelowna detachment as well as the Southeast district. Major crime units and specialized investigation resources are also involved.
As it's still early in the season for wildfire activity, the RCMP asks the public to remain vigilant and to report anything suspicious that they might see in their neighbourhoods.
