Nanaimo RCMP investigating suspicious fire in Bowen Park

Nanaimo RCMP are asking witnesses to come forward regarding a suspicious fire in Bowen Park over the weekend. 

City of Nanaimo Fire and Rescue responded to a report that two very large trees had been set on fire on the morning of Sunday, July 26th. 

Police say the affected trees were located adjacent to the pedestrian walking path near the park entrance off Riverside Drive. 

Firefighters were able to quickly extinguish the fire, preventing it from spreading.

Once the fire was out, Nanaimo RCMP officers attended the scene and detected a strong chemical odour in the area. 

Investigators searched the area for witnesses, surveillance footage and potential evidence; however, no suspects have been identified, and no witnesses have come forward.

“Had it not been for the rapid response of Nanaimo Fire Rescue personnel, this fire had the potential to spread and cause significant damage to nearby parkland and vegetation,” said Inspector Donovan Tait, operations officer for Nanaimo RCMP.

Anyone who witnessed suspicious activity near the pedestrian path of Bowen Park between 9 a.m. and 10 a.m. on Sunday, July 26th is asked to contact Nanaimo RCMP at (250) 754-2345.