Merritt RCMP detachment (Image Credit: CFJC Today / Kent Simmonds)

By Michael Reeve / Q-101 Merritt

Wildfire Picture

RCMP believe F-150 pickup may have caused multiple fires near Merritt Sunday night

Jul 19, 2021 | 10:38 AM

MERRITT, B.C. — The Merritt RCMP are investigating after seven fires sparked Sunday night (July 18) along Highway 8.

The Merritt Fire Department, Lower Nicola Fire Department and B.C. Wildfire Service responded along with the Mounties to the fires around 9:00 p.m. Sunday night between Johnny’s on the Rez and Juniper Drive.

“The fires are believed to have been sparked by a vehicle travelling through the area. The vehicle is described as an older model F-150, rusted with pieces hanging off it. The vehicle drove from Aberdeen Drive in Lower Nicola East through Merritt,” said Merritt RCMP Sgt. Josh Roda.

Several properties were evacuated but thankfully there has been no reports of damage.

“This could have ended much worse had the fires not been quickly extinguished,” added Roda.

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Anybody with information or dash cam footage in the area between 8:30 pm and 9:15 pm is asked to contact the Merritt RCMP or Crime Stoppers.

RCMP – 250-378-4262

Crime Stoppers – 1-800-222-8477