The Mitford Park bathrooms experienced a sudden closure, after being the latest victim of a vandalism and arson that took place earlier this week.
According to Cochrane RCMP Constable Clayton Gelinas, the incident was suspected to take place some time after 10:30 p.m. on July 14 into the early morning of July 15.
“Well, it looks like some of the wall had some fire and smoke that went up some of the wall,” Gelinas explained. “That’s all that we have at this point.”
When asked about damages and costs for repairs, Gelinas said that Cochrane RCMP is currently working with the Town to generate an estimate. As for criminal charges, Gelinas outlined that they will be made if a suspect is found.
“It would definitely fall under arson," Gelinas confirmed. "And I think there’s some vandalism that was spray painting and stuff, so that would be mischief. Of course it’s under the Criminal Code, and that would have to go to court, and they would decide whether it’s a fine or what from there.”
With a couple of noteworthy vandalism incidents taking place in the community, all within the same time frame, Gelinas said that this is just a series of unfortunate events.
“I would say that it’s just coincidence that they’ve happened within such proximity of each other,” Gelinas said. “I don’t believe vandalism is on the rise in Cochrane.”
Mitford Park remains open, but for now the bathrooms are still closed. In a Facebook post by the Town, portables will be available for public use while the bathroom undergoes repairs.
For now, Gelinas said the investigations is still ongoing.
If anyone has any information pertaining to this incident, Gelinas asks that they please contact the Cochrane RCMP by calling them via 403-851-8000, or by making an anonymous tip through Crime Stoppers by calling 1-800-222-8477, online through www.P3Tips.com, or the P3 Tips app.
