RCMP have arrested and charged five youth in connection to two fires in the Pauingassi and Little Grand Rapids area
The first fire was set near the school in Pauingassi on Tuesday, May 27, 2019, according to police and quickly spread due to high winds and dry conditions. By the next day, the fire had grown to cover 44 hectares. As of Thursday, May 30, 2019 smoke from the fire had stopped drifting towards the community. Six fire crews and a helicopter are assigned to the fire and are monitoring it closely.
RCMP say the blaze was deliberately set and have charged three female youth aged 12, 12 and 15 with the arson.
Little Grand Rapids Fire
A second fire was set behind the band office in Little Grand Rapids on Wednesday, May 28, 2019.
The local fire department with help from water bombers and additional provincial fire crews were quickly able to contain the blaze
RCMP in cooperation with Manitoba Sustainable Development determined the fire was deliberately set and began an investigation.
A 12-year-old male and a 14-year-old female were arrested and charged with arson.
Police are continuing to investigate both fires.
