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Knox Mountain fire Friday, Oct. 24 was deliberately set/ Amanda Mills
By Vernon Matters Staff
serious allegations

Knox Mtn arson suspect wore camouflage and used slingshot: RCMP

Oct 28, 2025 | 5:36 PM

RCMP are sharing some extraordinary details regarding their arrest of a man who’s alleged to have set fires on Knox Mountain Friday afternoon.

Police said Tuesday, 48-year-old Robert Austin Teal, who appeared in court Saturday, posed a significant threat to public safety and property.

He’s alleged to have been dressed in full camouflage using a slingshot to target construction workers and surveillance equipment near the base of Knox Mountain.

He then allegedly lit fires and attempted to spread flames using vegetation, putting numerous hikers, bikers and residents in the area at risk.

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