The RCMP said there have been five suspicious fires in the community since September, including two homes, a vehicle, the Flat Bay-St. Teresa’s Community Centre and the cabin that burned Sunday. Last weekend, a home was also damaged by gunfire.
“People are living in fear,” Lasaga said. “It’s to the point where people are cancelling trips and staying in their homes on lockdown.”
She said people in the community typically didn’t lock their doors unless they’re going away for a while, but that has now changed.
Because each of the fires were lit at different times of the day, Lasaga said people are “really spooked.” She said the fires seem to be random acts, which is also worrisome.
Lasaga did say she’s pleased with the efforts the RCMP investigation, and she hopes the culprit is caught before striking again.
Bay St. George RCMP Cpl. Chris Dawe said police have increased patrols in the area around the clock. Two members of the General Investigative Services, two members of the Corner Brook Major Crime Unit, members of the Forensic Identification Section and the Police Dog Service are assisting the Bay St. George officers in the investigation.
Police are following up on various leads but no one has been charged yet.
Dawe encouraged residents to be the eyes and ears of the community, but not to take matters into their own hands by patrolling themselves.
“We really need people in the community to have a heightened sense of awareness,” said Dawe.
Residents should report anything they witness, no matter how menial it may seem.
“We are making this a top priority,” Dawe said.
While police have been able to quickly dismiss some leads they have received, Dawe said others will take more of an effort to prove or disprove.
While police haven’t conclusively said the incidents are connected, Dawe said five fires in such a short period of time would lead anyone to believe there is a link. He said all options are being explored.
