‘Highly concerning’: Group of 150 youths cleared from BC park after fireworks ignite bush fire

Over the weekend, RCMP some fireworks were set off in a Nanaimo park, igniting a bushfire.

The fire was reported at about 11 pm on July 12, 2024 at Pipers Lagoon, located off Hammond Bay Road.

The fire scorched an area that measured 200 ft by 400 ft, and destroyed much of the grass and shrubbery lining a path on the east side of the park.

No injuries were reported and there was no damage to any structures, police said.

Firefighters responded to the fire, and then requested assistance from the RCMP to deal with upwards of 150 youths who were openly consuming alcohol in the park.

Police were able to clear the youths and vehicles from the area and after several hours, fire crews managed to bring the fire under control. No arrests were made.

Fire crews remained in the park until around 5 am to ensure there were no flare ups.

R/Cst Gary O’Brien of the Nanaimo RCMP said in a statement that if it were not for the quick actions of the firefighters, more extensive damage could have been done to the park and nearby homes.

Tim Doyle, Chief of Nanaimo Fire Rescue, added that right now it is extremely important for people to be responsible.

Fire at Pipers Lagoon
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“This preventable fire is highly concerning due to the hot, dry conditions that are ideal for wildfires,” Doyle said.

“We all need to be vigilant about our actions outdoors in the coming months. Smoking, fireworks, and open burning are prohibited in city parks. Please take all necessary precautions while enjoying the outdoors.”

Police are looking for information on those responsible for the fire, and are asking anyone who witnessed it or has video evidence to call the department’s non-emergency line at 250-754-2345.

Videos can be sent to [email protected].