SACHIGO LAKE — Multiple investigations into several arson incidents have resulted in numerous arrests.
In less than a month, between April 18 and May 3, there were six separate fire incidents in Sachigo Lake First Nation accoridng to a news release issued by the Nishnawbe Aski Police Service Wednesday morning.
That brings the total for 2025 up to eight suspected arson incidents.
Eleven people have been identified and charged with fire-related offences in connection with the eight incidents. All of the accused currently identified were between the ages of 11 and 16 years old.
It's estimated that damages add up to more than $1 million and represent a burden to the community for incidents that have occurred in 2025 alone.
In the news release, police outlined the investigations and their estimated damages.
- On Jan. 23, the arson of a new trailer home led to an estimated $270,000 in damages.
- On Jan. 24, the arson of an abandoned house led to an estimated $200,000 in damages. Four suspects were identified, and police charged a 13-year-old female, 12-year-old female, and a 15-year-old female. An 11-year-old male accused was not charged due to their age.
- On April 18, the arson of a stage in a baseball field led to an estimated $20,000 in damages.
- On April 19, the arson of a new trailer home led to an estimated $272,000 in damages. Four female accused – a 12-year-old, 13-year-old, and two 15-year-olds – have been identified and charged.
- On April 23, the arson of a trailer at a lumber yard led to an estimated $175,000 in damages.
- On April 23, the arson of a shed led to an estimated $6,000 in damages.
- On April 29, the arson of a shack at a lumber yard led to an estimated $9,000 in damages
- On May 3, the arson of a parked school bus led to an estimated $50,000 in damages. Three male suspects – one 15-years-old and two 16-year-olds – have been identified, arrested and charged.
Several investigations remain ongoing.
The identities of accused individuals will not be released in accordance with the Youth Criminal Justice Act.
Anyone with information that could assist investigators is asked to call the Sachigo Lake First Nation NAPS detachment at 807-595-2599.
Tips can be submitted anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or online at www.p3tips.com
