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Hot springs tire slasher targeting Alberta vehicles
Over the past two years Kimberley RCMP has received a number of complaints about vandalism to vehicles while parked at Lussier Hot Springs in Whiteswan Lake Provincial Park.
“The random acts of vandalism involve the slashing of tires. Given the remote location and the randomness of the incidents it’s been very difficult for police to investigate. There could be several tires slashed on a particular day and then nothing for weeks or even months,” reported Kimberley RCMP’s Cpl. Chris Newel.
A park visitor whose vehicle was vandalized last weekend said visitors need to be warned about these incidents, which also occurred the weekend before.
“It is a safety issue, somebody is puncturing people’s tires while people go and use hot springs. Somebody is doing it intentionally; they are using some kind of sharp utensil and doing it on the sides of the tires so you won’t be able to repair the tire in the future. We were there this weekend and all five of our tires (including spare tire at the back) got punctured several times. It is a major safety concern for people who are visiting out there because there is no reception or close by police station or any help line,” reported Xeniya (no last name provided).
Newel concurred that damages being done to vehicles Lussier, which is 18 km from Highway 93/95, is a safety concern, as is an apparent motive.
“The damage in addition to cost is a major inconvenience as there is no cell coverage, no services nearby and minimal traffic to assist. It would appear the suspect(s) is targeting vehicles from Alberta, which is very disturbing,” he said.
Police are working with BC Parks, B.C. Conservation Officer Services, Natural Resource Officers and the park contractor, Kootenay Park Services, in an effort to increase awareness and subsequently identify a suspect. Police have also been working on a number of strategies with other agencies to further the investigation.
“Police believe the suspect likely resides in the area and has a strong unrealistic perception as to who should be allowed to use the park. The investigation into the incidents is continuing, police have some leads but are looking for further information,” Newel said.
If you utilize Whiteswan Lake Provincial Park, specifically the Lussier Hot Springs area, please be vigilant and report any suspicious activity to Kimberley RCMP at (250) 427-4811.
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