The Campbell River RCMP is now investigating after a fire was intentionally set in the paper goods aisle at Walmart.
The fire started around 10:00 pm Thursday night.
The RCMP says fire investigators, forensics identification teams, and the Major Crimes Unit have determined that the fire was deliberately set to hide a very significant theft from the store.
At this point, investigators are not revealing what was taken or it’s value.
They have however released a description of the suspect.
At the time of the crime he was believed to be wearing a grey jacket; black pants (possibly cargos), a two-tone possibly grey/black ball cap, and black sneakers with white soles.
Investigators are still reviewing video and forensic evidence but Campbell River RCMP Constable Maury Tyre says this crime was extremely serious and costly in nature.
“The damage to the building and its goods is yet to be fully assessed, but it’s safe to say that there are extensive monetary damages.”
“Crimes like these have far-reaching effects that most criminals don’t even think of. The financial damage it can do to employees while a location is closed isn’t a trivial matter and the sheer costs of cleanup and replacement of goods drive insurance costs higher which drive costs to consumers higher in the long run.”
He adds that while nobody was injured as a result of the fire, the crime put the lives of customers, staff, and fire crews at risk and the entire community should wish to see this person brought to justice.
If you have information regarding this crime, you’re asked to call the Campbell River RCMP at 250-286-6221.
The Campbell River RCMP has also spoken with Walmart, and if you have a prescription pickup at that location, you can have it delivered to the Walmart in Courtenay instead.
