RCMP investigating Beaumont fires as arsons potentially linked to extortion scheme

Two recent fires in Beaumont are being investigated as possible arsons.

RCMP believe this week’s fire at a newly built home and an earlier fire at an unoccupied show home are potentially linked to an ongoing extortion campaign involving under-construction homes.

Both blazes were at homes by the same builder: Active Homes.

RCMP are working with Edmonton police to share details.

Nobody was injured in Tuesday’s early-morning fire, but the home is considered a total loss.

CityNews spoke to several residents in the neighbourhood who say they are afraid for their safety and worried about their own homes.

The alleged gang-linked extortion schemes are believed to primarily target members of the South Asian business community.

EPS Staff Sgt. Eric Stewart is scheduled to hold a media availability Thursday at 10 a.m. regarding the extortion investigation.

–With files from Adrienne South