Arson investigation underway after teepee fire at Alberta RCMP detachment

LAC LA BICHE, Alta. — An arson investigation is underway after flames tore through a commemorative teepee that was a gift to an Alberta RCMP detachment from a local First Nation.

Mounties say members of the public alerted Lac La Biche RCMP to the fire, which was quickly doused by officers and local fire crews on Monday night.

Police say Beaver Lake Cree Nation gifted the teepee in 2021 to symbolize reconciliation between RCMP and Indigenous Peoples.

The structure was hand-painted by Beaver Lake members and included the handprints of students from a local school.

RCMP say evidence has been secured at the scene and an investigation is ongoing.

Mounties are asking people to come forward if they have any information about the fire.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Sept. 24, 2024.

The Canadian Press