Arson destroys children's playground at Centennial Park in Duncan

On May 26, 2023 at 2:40 am frontline officers of the North Cowichan/Duncan RCMP detachment responded to assist the Duncan Fire Department with a report of a fire at 325 First Street, in the City of Duncan.  When Constable Alex Santaga arrived on scene at Centennial Park four minutes later, he found the play structure fully engulfed.  "I was so disappointed to arrive and find our popular children's park was on fire.  This is a big hit for the community as we come into our summer months when this park is normally very busy,"  said Constable Santaga.

The investigation is in it's early stages and police are asking for the public's assistance in identifying the person or persons responsible for this arson.  If you live in the area and have cameras on your property that captured persons walking in the area between 2:00 and 2:40 am, please contact the North Cowichan/Duncan RCMP.

Inspector Chris Bear said, "As you can see from the photograph, significant damage was done to the playground.  I know the investigators will do everything that can to determine who is responsible, however a big piece for this investigation with be community members reaching out to us with information." 

If you have video or any information that might assist with this investigation, please contact the North Cowichan/Duncan RCMP at 250-748-5522.