Arson to CP Rail Bridge

On August 5th, 2023, at approximately 11:00 p.m., RCMP, along with Kootenay Boundary Fire crews, responded to a Canadian Pacific trestle bridge fully engulfed. The bridge is located in Genelle, north of Lower China Creek Road, where the tracks cross over the China Creek. It was determined the fire, which was only contained to the CP bridge, was intentionally set. The fire caused extensive damage to the rail system and bridge, with an estimated repair cost of $1,000,000. Canadian Pacific Rail Police, along with the RCMP, are currently investigating.

Additionally, the following day there were another two suspicious fires in the City of Castlegar. One being along the CP Rail tracks above the 900 block of Columbia Ave, and the other west of that area up the hillside toward Merry Creek Forest Service Road.

Investigators are asking anyone who witnessed anything suspicious during this time, including anyone observed walking or riding a bicycle along the tracks, to call Police.

Due to several recent suspected arsons in Castlegar, RCMP wishes to remind the public to notify them of anything or anyone suspicious near the highways or rail system.