Hay River RCMP have charged two men in connection with a weekend arson that destroyed a residence in Rowe’s Trailer Court and damaged nearby homes.
Police say the fire broke out early Sunday morning, June 29th, around 5:30 a.m. Emergency crews responded after receiving reports of a home engulfed in flames and individuals fleeing the scene.
The Hay River Fire Department attended alongside RCMP, but the structure was deemed a total loss. Neighboring properties also sustained damage from the blaze.
Investigators determined the fire had been deliberately set. Following a police investigation, two suspects were identified and taken into custody.
22-year-old Tyrone Stephens of Hay River and 43-year-old Brent Norn of Kátł’odeeche First Nation have each been charged with arson and common nuisance endangering life.
In addition, Stephens faces a charge of wearing a disguise with intent to commit an indictable offence, while Norn, who was previously under court-ordered conditions, is charged with failing to comply with an undertaking.
Both men have appeared before a Justice of the Peace and remain in custody.
RCMP credited the public for assisting in the investigation.
Anyone with further information is urged to contact Hay River RCMP at 867-874-1111 or submit tips anonymously through Crime Stoppers.