A 28-year-old woman has been arrested in connection with fires set on the Galloping Goose Trail west of Sooke Road.
Firefighters from Sooke Fire Rescue who responded in the early hours on Tuesday found a small brush fire and a blaze on a large cedar tree that reached several metres up the trunk.
“Thanks to the quick and professional response by Sooke Fire Rescue, the fires were extinguished before spreading to the vast forests in the area,” said Sooke RCMP, who determined the fires were intentionally set.
Police said a suspect was identified based on evidence at the scene, and a 28-year-old woman of no fixed address was arrested later Tuesday.
Sooke Mayor Maja Tait commended the efforts of Sooke Fire and Sooke RCMP.
Sooke Fire Chief Ted Ruiter said the current wildfire danger is high, which means fires can start easily and challenge fire-suppression efforts.
Anyone in the area of the Sooke Potholes, Sooke River Road and Galloping Goose Trail on Tuesday between 5 a.m. and 6 a.m. who witnessed anything suspicious is asked to call Sooke RCMP at 250-642-5241.
