RCMP investigating trio of suspicious wildfires in Grand Forks, B.C.

RCMP investigating trio of suspicious wildfires in Grand Forks, B.C.

Number, proximity, timing of fires indicate they are suspicious, say firefighters

Firefighters in Grand Forks, B.C., were called to three separate wildfires this weekend which they say are suspicious.

The fires were reported between 9 p.m. Friday and 2 a.m. PT Saturday in the Hardy Mountain area.

In a statement, Grand Forks Fire Rescue said the first two fires were "relatively small" and crews dealt with them quickly.

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The third fire, however, grew quickly from an area of about 25 square metres to about 8,400 square metres before crews put it down.

"The fire was spreading in all directions, but was not close to any structures," the fire department said.

"Due to the number of fires, their proximity and timing, the circumstances are considered suspicious."

Grand Forks Fire Rescue said the incident was reported to both the B.C. Wildfire Service and RCMP.

A spokesperson for Grand Forks RCMP confirmed Mounties are "actively investigating" and said they hoped to be able to provide an update on Monday.

Anyone who was in the area at the time and saw something unusual, or who has potentially relevant video is asked to contact the RCMP.