SANDY BAY — A male teenager has been charged with arson following a fire that destroyed an abandoned house in Sandy Bay early on Oct. 18.
At approximately 5:15 a.m., Sandy Bay RCMP received a report of a fire at an empty residence. Officers responded along with local fire services, who extinguished the blaze. No injuries were reported, but the building was heavily damaged.
A male teenager was arrested later that morning with the assistance of Peter Ballantyne Cree Nation security personnel.
As a result of the investigation, the teen has been charged with one count of arson and two counts of failing to comply with an undertaking condition.
RCMP said they are unable to identify the accused, including his specific age, under provisions of the Youth Criminal Justice Act.
The teen was remanded into custody and appeared in Prince Albert Provincial Court via CCTV on Oct. 20.
Sandy Bay RCMP continue to investigate the incident, along with several other structure fires — three houses and one outbuilding — that have occurred in Sandy Bay this month. Police believe the fires may have been deliberately set and are working to determine whether the incidents are connected. Saskatchewan RCMP’s General Investigation Section is assisting with the investigations.
Anyone who witnessed the fires or has information about how they started is asked to contact Sandy Bay RCMP by dialling 310-RCMP. Information can also be submitted anonymously through Saskatchewan Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or online at www.saskcrimestoppers.com.
