RCMP investigating Beaumont fires as arsons potentially linked to extortion scheme
Posted January 17, 2024 2:28 pm.
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
