- The Penticton RCMP is warning the public about misinformation circulating online regarding the Summerland (Bald Range) wildfire.
- The warning is in response to videos and images on social media showing someone lighting a non-lethal wildlife deterrent device (a bear banger).
- Police have identified the individual in the video as a witness, not a suspect, and the incident occurred kilometers away from the fire origin area.
- The RCMP is investigating all reports of suspicious activity that may have ignited the blaze and is seeking witnesses who observed actions around Princeton-Summerland Road, Bathville Road, Crump Recreation Site, and Trout Creek Recreation Site.
- Police are looking to review dashcam footage, videos, photos, and information from Friday, Aug. 7, beginning in the afternoon.
- The RCMP is working with other detachments and the BC Conservation Officer Service to patrol the area and check on properties, and a man was arrested within the evacuated area on Sunday afternoon.
- Anyone with information, video, or images is asked to contact the Penticton South Okanagan Similkameen Regional RCMP Detachment at 250-492-4300 or email baldrangereporting@rcmp-grc.gc.ca.
The Penticton RCMP is cautioning the public about misinformation related to the Summerland wildfire, specifically regarding a viral video showing an individual using a bear banger.
“Investigators have identified the individual in question, who is considered a witness and not a suspect,” police stated.
The video has sparked concerns, but authorities confirmed that the incident occurred kilometers away from the fire's origin.
The RCMP is actively investigating reports of suspicious activity that may have contributed to the wildfire and is appealing for public assistance.
“Investigators are interested in speaking to witnesses who may have observed any actions or activities around Princeton-Summerland Road and Bathville Road,” the police said.
They are particularly looking for dashcam footage, videos, and images from the area on August 7, starting in the afternoon.
The District of Summerland remains under an evacuation order as the situation develops.
The RCMP is collaborating with other detachments and the BC Conservation Officer Service to monitor the area and ensure the safety of properties and businesses.
Anyone with information is urged to contact the Penticton South Okanagan Similkameen Regional RCMP Detachment at 250-492-4300 or email baldrangereporting@rcmp-grc.gc.ca.
“Police are investigating all reports of suspicious activity that may have ignited the blaze and are seeking witnesses who observed actions around Princeton-Summerland Road, Bathville Road, Crump Recreation Site, and Trout Creek Recreation Site. They also want dashcam footage, videos, and photos from Friday, Aug. 7, beginning in the afternoon.”
