A member of the Macklin FD has been charged with arson and fraud following some bale fires. Police say they responded to over 15 fires in the last month. (Macklin FD/Facebook)

By CKOM News Staff

Bale arson

25-year-old Macklin firefighter charged in hay bale arson case

Aug 28, 2024 | 11:41 AM

A 25-year-old firefighter from Macklin, Sask. is facing arson and theft charges after allegedly lighting a hay bale fire in a field near Macklin and Evesham on July 31.

According to the RCMP, the incident was just one of a number of hay bale and grass fires that were intentionally set in the area between July 29 and Sunday. The community even offered a $3,000 reward for information leading to the discovery and apprehension of the person setting the fires.

“Within the last month we responded to over 15 reports of deliberately set hay bale and grass fires,” Cpl. Christopher Neufeld of the Unity RCMP said in a statement.

“These fires resulted in property loss and greatly impacted our local farmers. Thanks to the diligent work of our RCMP investigators and our partnership and collaboration with Macklin Fire Department, we have now made an arrest and laid charges.”

According to the Mounties, the 25-year-old was arrested on Monday after police analyzed surveillance video related to the fire.

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He’s been charged with one count each of arson causing mischief, arson with intent to defraud, and theft under $5,000. Police said he’s scheduled to appear in court in Unity in November.

In a social media post, Macklin & District Fire/Rescue chief Justin Bast said the man now facing arson charges is a firefighter.

“After weeks of working hand in hand with the RCMP, our worst suspicions were confirmed and a person of interest was taken into custody,” the fire department wrote.

“It is with profound sadness that we report this individual was a member of the fire department. Mfd is beyond grateful to the Unity detachment for their assistance in this matter.

“We deeply apologize to the public and hope that you understand that this rash of incidents, due to one individual’s actions, in no way represents the Macklin Fire department, its members or what we stand for. We want to thank everyone for their support, assistance and understanding.”

In a previous interview, Bast said it was clear that the fires were being set intentionally.

“We found some (bales) that tried to be lit and didn’t light. So, that’s kinda how we came up with the fact that somebody was lighting them. It’s too many in too many different places for them to be naturally occurring,” said Bast.

“To help prevent being a victim of these types of property crimes, Unity/Macklin RCMP advise farmers or land owners to transport hay bales to locations where monitoring can happen, if possible,” the RCMP advised.

“Please report any suspicious people or vehicles to police as soon as possible.”