Meadow Lake RCMP believe fire that destroyed arena was set nearby

Meadow Lake RCMP are looking for more information after a fire destroyed the community arena on Sunday.

In a release that was sent out Sunday evening, police are saying that early investigations show that the fire was set in a storage shed adjacent to the arena and that a concession stand was broken into in the area.

Police are saying an older-model grey truck was seen leaving the area prior to police arriving on the scene but no further details were released.

The City of Meadow Lake took to Facebook to address what the loss of the arena would mean to the community.

“This arena has been at the heart of Meadow Lake for 45 years. We often heard from visitors what a beautiful and well-kept arena this was for its age, which is a testament to how well it was loved by the community,” the post said. “Our arena hosted hockey tournaments, rodeos, markets, and concerts — events that brought us all together as friends and neighbours.

“Thankfully, no one was hurt in the fire. We want to send our thanks out to the firefighters and emergency responders who put in long hours and kept the fire from spreading further. Eventually we will need to look to the future but today, let’s honour our good memories and grieve the loss of this part of our shared history.”

Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Meadow Lake RCMP at (306) 236-2570. If you want to remain anonymous, call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.