SADDLE LAKE - RCMP are reaching out to the community in hopes of gathering information regarding a fire that destroyed a trailer being used by the Acimowin Opaspiw Society as part of the organization's residential school investigation work.
The Acimowin Opaspiw Society has been conducting investigative work at a former Blue Quills residential school site, which existed near the Sacred Heart Cemetery in Saddle Lake from 1898 to 1931. The residential school was then moved closer to St. Paul in the 1930s.
On the morning of May 11, 2024, St. Paul RCMP responded to a report of a trailer that had burned down near the Sacred Heart Cemetery, near the historical location of the Sacred Heart residential school. The fire is believed to have been started after 1:30 a.m.
"Officers promptly arrived at the scene, interviewed numerous people , and conducted both neighbourhood and video surveillance canvassing in an effort to identify suspects and/or suspect vehicle," according to information from RCMP.
Fire investigators and St. Paul RCMP Forensics Identification Services were deployed to gather evidence and examine the scene.
Despite efforts, the information gathered has not resulted in enough evidence to allow for the arrest and charge of any individuals.
"We are now reaching out to the community for assistance in identifying anyone who may have seen or heard something related to this incident at the Sacred Heart Cemetery," say RCMP.
"Your input could be crucial in solving this incident. We understand that sharing information can sometimes be difficult, but your cooperation is vital to ensure the safety and well-being of our community," according to RCMP. "Every detail counts, and your contribution could make a significant difference."
RCMP say they recognize the impact this incident has caused to the community and the historical trauma of residential schools.
"We firmly believe this investigation can be solved and that individuals in the community possess vital information that has not yet been shared with police," according to RCMP.
RCMP ask anyone with information, "no matter how minor it may seem," to report information to St. Paul RCMP at 780-645-8888.
If you wish to remain anonymous, you can contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS), online at www.P3Tips.com or by using the "P3 Tips" app available through the Apple App or Google Play Store.
