Police say a 29-year-old man has been arrested for arson following a grass fire in British Columbia’s Okanagan region over the weekend. Officers with the West Kelowna RCMP responded to the blaze near Highway 97 and Sneena Road shortly after 5:15 p.m. Saturday. Firefighters quickly brought the flames under control, the local RCMP detachment said in a news release Monday. Witnesses at the scene provided police with a description of a man believed to have sparked the blaze. The suspect was later arrested for arson and mischief, police said. The man, who was not identified in the release, was released from police custody pending a future court appearance. “Information provided by witnesses played a significant role in helping officers quickly identify and locate the suspect,” Cpl. Devon Gerrits said in a statement. “We appreciate members of the public who come forward with timely information that assists police investigations.” Mounties are urging residents to remain vigilant as weather conditions are favourable to the ignition and spread of wildfires. “Anyone who observes a fire, suspicious activity, or behaviour that could pose a fire risk is encouraged to report it immediately by calling 911,” the release said. The investigation into the West Kelowna fire is ongoing and police said no further information about the case is available at this time.
