Mounties in Lake Louise are investigating arson after local fire crews were called to a report of a tree on fire just off Sentinel Road in Lake Louise on Thursday evening.

"Lake Louise Fire was dispatched to Once on scene, they determined that the fire had been deliberately set and RCMP were dispatched," police stated. 

First responders noted that the tree was just off the walking path on the south side of Sentinel Road. The fire was extinguished and the tree was taken down to prevent the fire from restarting and spreading.

Mounties in Lake Louise are investigating arson after local fire crews were called to a report of a tree on fire just off Sentinel Road in Lake Louise on Thursday evening.Mounties in Lake Louise are investigating arson after local fire crews were called to a report of a tree on fire just off Sentinel Road in Lake Louise on Thursday evening. (Photo provided by RCMP)

Sergeant Susan Richter, Detachment Commander of Lake Louise RCMP said there is no such thing as a minor arson.

"Even though our current fire risk is low due to recent rain, conditions can change quickly, any fire can spread rapidly and cause catastrophic damage. We are taking this incident very seriously and our investigation is continuing."

Lindsay McPherson, external relations manager with Parks Canada, states that lighting a fire in any area other than a designated fire pit in the National Park is strictly prohibited and can carry a fine of up to $25,000.

Lake Louise RCMP are seeking witnesses to this arson. If you have any information regarding this occurrence or any other criminal activity, please contact Lake Louise RCMP at 403.522-3812, your local Police Service, or call 911 if an emergency.  If you wish to remain anonymous, you can contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS), or online at www.P3Tips.com.

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