“Suspicious” fire destroys First Nations community centre near Nanaimo

Nanaimo RCMP announced on Tuesday that they’re considering the fire that destroyed a First Nations Community Centre “suspicious in nature”.

At approximately 4:00 am on Saturday, August 19th a structural fire was reported at the Nanoose Community Centre.

Located on the Snaw-Naw-As First Nations territory, the fire at the centre was battled by Lantzville Fire Crews.

The fire-fighting efforts continued for most of Saturday. In the end, the blaze destroyed the building and one vehicle parked adjacent to it.

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No Injuries Reported, Cause Remains Undetermined

Luckily, the building was unoccupied. No injuries were reported and no other damage was reported to nearby homes.

Nanaimo RCMP fire scene investigators along with City of Nanaimo Fire investigators examined the scene on Saturday.

In addition to forensic evidence gathered, investigators are following up on information that a number of young people were seen in the area prior to the fire starting.

At this time the actual cause of the fire has not been determined and it is considered suspicious in nature, said Constable Gary O’Brien of the Nanaimo RCMP.

If anyone has information on the fire, please call the Nanaimo RCMP at 250-754-2345. If you wish to remain anonymous contact Crime Stoppers.