Government Seeking Public Help to find Wildfire Arsonist

Alberta Agriculture and Forestry and the RCMP are looking for witnesses who may have seen an arsonist who started a wildfire northeast of Slave Lake in May.

The McMillan wildfire began near the community of Wabasca on the afternoon of Saturday, May 18 at around 2 p.m. The wildfire originated at approximately kilometre 40 on Highway 754, northeast of Slave Lake. It grew to be more than 273,000 hectares in size and threatened several communities, leading to the evacuation of Wabasca, and Peerless Trout First Nation. Wildland firefighters were able to bring the fire under control on July 1.

Alberta Wildfire investigators along with the RCMP Forestry Crimes Unit, have determined the wildfire started as a result of arson.

Members of the public with information regarding the details of this wildfire or other fires in the area are encouraged to call toll free at 1-833-999-FIRE (3473). A reward may be given for information leading to an arrest.