Archives from January 1, 2023 – July 5, 2025.
To view current news visit: BC RCMP news.
Information identified as archived is provided for reference, research or recordkeeping purposes. It is not subject to the Government of Canada Web Standards and has not been altered or updated since it was archived. Please contact us to request a format other than those available.
West Shore
2024-07-15 13:59 PDT
File # 2024-13424
On July 15 2024, at approximately 7:00 a.m., West Shore RCMP responded to a call from the Colwood Fire Department of a male who appeared to be experiencing a mental health crisis and had started a beach fire at the Esquimalt Lagoon.
West Shore RCMP Frontline officers attended the area and were notified by a witness that the suspect had also set fire to the mammoth statue at Royal Bay Beach and had departed the area on foot. The male was reportedly in possession of a hatchet.
Officers were able to locate and arrest the 41-year-old suspect a short distance from the fire scene. Witnesses told officers that the suspect had also damaged a set of stairs and a second wooden art statue with the hatchet. A hatchet was located and seized by police near the arrest location.
The suspect is being held in police custody to attend court this afternoon. Police are recommending charges of:
The damage is estimated to be worth approximately $30,000-$40,000.
Released by:
Email: chris.dovell@rcmp-grc.gc.ca Website: westshore.rcmp.ca (English only)
Follow Us: