Suspicious Fire Destroys Community Centre

Fire destroys First Nations community Hall 

At approximately 5 am on Saturday August 19 a structure fire was reported at the Nanoose Community Centre located on the Snaw Naw As First Nations territory.  Lantzville Fire Crews battled the blaze for most of Saturday which destroyed the unoccupied building and one vehicle parked adjacent to it. 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 at the scene 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 at www.nanaimocrimestoppers.com, text 274637, keyword Nanaimo or call 1-800-222-8477.