The Resource Enforcement Division is requesting information about an individual alleged to have started a large fire close to a wooded area near the community of Trout River.

Resource Enforcement Officers from the Massey Drive Detachment are investigating an unattended fire that was discovered burning out of control at approximately 1:00 p.m. on Thursday, June 4, 2026.

A mixture of household furniture, tires, brush and grass were burned. Officers was in the area and attended the scene immediately when large plumes of smoke were observed.

The location of the pit alongside Route 431, where the fire occurred, is only 500 metres northeast of the nearest residential structure.

As part of the investigation, officers are seeking any witnesses or video footage (dash camera or cell phone) from the area between the hours of 12:00 p.m. and 1:00 p.m. on Thursday, June 4, 2026, that may assist the investigation.

Please call the Resource Enforcement Division at 709-637-2971 during business hours or make an anonymous report anytime at 1-877-820-0999.

The public is reminded that it is an offence under the Forest Fire Regulations to light a fire on forest land, within 300 metres of forest land, or in an area containing flammable vegetation during the Forest Fire Season unless a permit to burn has been issued.

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