Campbell River RCMP was called to investigate a serious incident in the trails underneath the bridges over the Campbell River at 7:30 am on September 22, 2020.
Fishermen who were out to drop an early line in the river located a male in the Brick parking lot suffering from severe burns to his back. BC Ambulance Service was able to transport the 20-year-old Campbell River man to a local hospital for treatment of the very serious, but non-life-threatening burns.
As a result of the subsequent investigation conducted by the Major Crimes Unit, General Duty Units, Police Dog Services, and Forensic Identification Services, it is now believed that the male was deliberately set on fire while he was sleeping on the island underneath the highway bridge sometime in the early hours of September, 22nd, 2020. The man managed to shed his burning clothing and made his way to the parking lot for help. It was later determined that some of his possessions had been removed from the area.
Setting someone on fire is truly an egregious offense,
said Cst Maury Tyre. Nobody, no matter what their situation in life deserves to be treated in such a horrendous manner. We at the Campbell River RCMP intend to use our resources to locate the individual/individuals responsible for this incident and hold them legally accountable. We truly wish this young man a speedy recovery.
The investigation is in its early stages and police are looking to speak to anyone who may have been a witness to, or have information regarding this serious incident. If you have information regarding this situation please contact the Campbell River RCMP at 250-286-6221 and reference File 2020-12211.
If you wish to report an anonymous tip, visit Campbell River Crime Stoppers here.
The Campbell River RCMP would like to thank the Campbell River Fire Department and the BC Ambulance Service for their exemplary professional response to this incident.
