RCMP are investigating a fire at the Sand Bar in Happy Valley-Goose Bay on the weekend as a case of arson.
Police were called around 4:45 on Saturday morning. The building was destroyed despite the best efforts of firefighters.
RCMP say evidence gathered at the site suggests that the fire was deliberately set.
Two people were seen running from the property with the possibility of a third suspect in the area when the fire broke out.
It’s just the latest incident in a town that local residents say is experiencing a surge in criminal activity and property crimes.
Frustrated residents rallied outside the Happy Valley-Goose Bay town council last night demanding solutions.
MHA Perry Trimper says the issue is a complex one and efforts are underway to establish a facility to address some of the factors including addictions and mental health issues, intergenerational trauma, and homelessness.
He’s in St. John’s this week meeting with officials from justice and public safety, and health among others.
“It is challenging,” Trimper acknowledges, “I understand the frustration.” But he’s urging that cooler heads prevail and that everyone work together to find solutions.