Suspect set fire to RCMP detachment in northern B.C., police say

An RCMP detachment sign is seen in this file photo. (CJDC)

A man has been arrested after allegedly setting fire to an RCMP building in northern B.C.

The fire began along the exterior wall of the Northern Rockies detachment in Fort Nelson during business hours on Thursday, Mounties said in a news release Friday.

According to police, the blaze caused “some exterior damage,” and the building’s HVAC system pulled “a considerable amount of smoke” into the building, forcing it to be evacuated.

A witness reported that the fire was intentionally set, police said, adding that the witness shared a photo of the suspect with officers.

“Police recognized the person depicted in the photo and he was arrested after a brief foot pursuit,” the release reads.

Mounties did not publish the photo with their release.

“The fire was quickly extinguished, preventing further damage to the building,” said Sgt. Christian Drabosenig, officer in charge of the Northern Rockies RCMP, in the release.

“This could have been much worse, as the fire happened during business hours while office staff were present. Thankfully, everyone got out safely.”

Police did not name the suspect, who has not yet been charged. “Multiple charges” may be recommended as the investigation proceeds, police said.