The RCMP logo is seen in Surrey, B.C., Friday, April 13, 2018. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Darryl Dyck

By The Canadian Press

Man, 48, charged with arson and assault after brush fire in Kelowna, B.C.

Oct 28, 2025 | 1:59 PM

KELOWNA — Police in Kelowna, B.C., say a 48-year-old man has been charged with arson and assaulting a peace officer with a weapon after he allegedly lit brush fires on a mountain slope in the southern Interior city last week.

Kelowna RCMP say they received a report of a man dressed in full camouflage who was allegedly using a slingshot to target construction workers and surveillance equipment near the base of Knox Mountain at about 3 p.m. on Friday.

They say witnesses described seeing the man lighting fires, which spread rapidly due to dry conditions and shifting winds, putting hikers, bikers and residents at risk.

The Mounties say emergency officials were concerned about the potential for the blaze to escalate to a larger wildfire, but crews brought the flames under control.

They say the suspect was arrested and remained in custody after a court hearing on Saturday, with another appearance scheduled for Thursday.

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RCMP continue to investigate the incident and they’re asking anyone with information, including any surveillance footage, to contact them.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Oct. 28, 2025.

The Canadian Press