The RCMP is seeking assistance from the public in investigating four separate structure fires that occurred overnight Friday in Happy Valley-Goose Bay. According to a media release, the RCMP responded to a structure fire on Palliser Crescent before midnight, resulting in the complete destruction of the building and its contents. At approximately 3:10 a.m., a residence on Cabot Street was discovered engulfed in flames, and police later received reports of fires at an abandoned building near Northmart on Hamilton River Road and an office building an hour later.
Fortunately, there were no injuries reported in connection with the fires, and all the buildings were unoccupied. The RCMP suspects that the fires were intentionally set and is urging residents to review any video surveillance footage from the areas affected for any suspicious activities. They are also requesting that any relevant information or footage be shared with the Happy Valley-Goose Bay RCMP.
The town authorities acknowledge the residents’ concerns and assure them of close collaboration with law enforcement agencies to ensure public safety. Mayor Bert Pomeroy expressed gratitude for the efforts of the RCMP and fire department and urged residents to stay vigilant and cooperate with the investigation.
Deputy Mayor Jackie Compton-Hobbs, whose shed was the first to catch fire, emphasized the severity of the situation, stating, “Enough is enough.” She believes that the series of fires may be the work of an arsonist and expressed concern over the incidents. Additionally, an old restaurant known as Tricia Dee’s was also affected by the fires, as reported by local resident Robert Dawe on social media.