Coquitlam Fire and Rescue officials believe an early morning blaze that destroyed a part of the picnic area on the west side of Mundy Park was likely deliberately set.
Emergency crews were called out to the scene at Hillcrest Street and Winslow Avenue early Tuesday morning after a resident in the area called 911. By the time they arrived picnic tables and their wooden covering were completely engulfed in flames.
"Since there were no ignition sources in the area, we strongly suspected the fire was set on purpose," said Coquitlam RCMP spokesperson Jamie Chung. "This type of vandalism is completely reckless and senseless. But now there is one less place for people to go and enjoy the tranquility of the park until repair is done to the area."
After the blaze was extinguished fire investigators combed the area for clues while Mounties canvassed the neighbourhood for any information.
Chung said the area was scattered with liquor containers, some of which were partially full when police searched the area. He added that anyone who saw anything suspicious late on Monday night or early Tuesday morning should call police at 604-945-1550 and quote file number 2012-5902.
Those who wish to provide information anonymously can contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS) or go online at www.solvecrime.ca.
