RCMP investigate six suspicious fires at abandoned buildings in New Annan, P.E.I. Residents on alert as police ask public for tips and footage.
Residents on Alert After Suspicious Fires in P.E.I.
Patrols Increase Amid Fire Outbreak in New Annan
RCMP officers in Prince Edward Island have ramped up patrols in eastern Prince County after six suspicious fires erupted in the New Annan area within two weeks. The blazes occurred at abandoned homes and buildings just west of Kensington, prompting a multi-agency investigation and heightened concern among residents.
Series of Fires Raises Alarm
The first fire broke out on June 24 along Route 2 in New Annan. On July 1, two separate fires ignited at different properties on Murphy Road in nearby Clermont. That same afternoon, fire flared again at the original Route 2 location. The most recent incidents occurred on July 8 along Irishtown Road and on July 9 on Soloman Gallant Road. All six sites were abandoned structures.
RCMP Investigate Possible Link Between Incidents
Authorities believe the fires are connected. “We are certainly looking at all angles of the investigation, which is now being carried out by our Major Crimes Unit,” said Const. Kevn MacKay of the RCMP. “They are all being treated as suspicious.” The force is collaborating with the General Investigation Section, the P.E.I. Fire Marshal’s Office, Kensington Police and Fire Departments, and the Prince District Detachment.
Community Fears Over Safety and Escalation
Local residents are on edge. Joe Nicholson, whose property borders two fire sites, watched them burn from his backyard. “I understand it’s just abandoned homes… but there’s a way to do that where it doesn’t risk property or lives,” he said, highlighting the danger faced by volunteer firefighters responding to the scenes.
Nicholson and others fear the fires could spread to occupied areas, endangering lives and homes. “My fear is that if [they’re] not stopped… it’ll get worse.”
Public Asked to Share Tips, Footage
RCMP are calling on the public to assist the investigation by reporting any suspicious individuals or activity. “Secure your own properties, whether it be your exterior buildings or your sheds,” said MacKay. “We’re urging people to check home security footage, particularly around abandoned properties.”
Nicholson, who reported a suspicious individual in the area to police, echoed the importance of community vigilance. “It would be really nice to have this person stopped,” he added.
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