The remnants of a 99 year old landmark located at the corner of Main Street and Railway Avenue in the community of Leask lay charred and smouldering at the end of the day Feb. 9 in what Blaine Lake RCMP are now calling a blaze of suspicious origin.
RCMP members and Leask, Blaine Lake and Shellbrook Fire Departments responded to the 9-1-1 call at a 2:43 a.m. Upon arrival at the scene they found the local hotel/bar engulfed in flames.
Ed Musich, owner, resident and lone occupant escaped shaken but unharmed.
The quick response time and fortunate physical location of the Leask department, only meters away, contributed to the containment of the fire. Fire crews were kept busy in the -25 C temperatures protecting the adjacent businesses from igniting. A brick wall dividing the hotel from a neighbouring business, Bramshott Spirits, was credited with preventing the blaze from spreading.
Many businesses within the immediate vicinity of the hotel suffered heat and smoke damage.
Members of the Leask Volunteer Fire Department remained on scene throughout the day tending to hotspots and flying debris while billows of smoke could still be seen miles away. The RCMP continued to monitor the scene a few days following the incident. Interviews with Leask VFD fire chief and Leask mayor were declined as the matter is still under police investigation.
Blaine Lake RCMP issued a release Wednesday saying investigation has revealed the fire is of suspicious origin and accidental cause has been ruled out.
The RCMP are not confirming any evidence at this time to keep the integrity of the investigation credible, states Sgt. John Redlich in the press release.
"The investigation is still on going and we are following up on tips received," Redlich adds.
"The police are asking for the public's assistance in this matter . . . call Crime Stoppers or your local police agency with any information you may have"
The residents are saddened by the tragic event as the historic landmark was going to be celebrating its 100 year anniversary in conjunction with the community's centennial celebration in 2012.
