Burnaby RCMP now say a November 15 fire at the Burnaby Hospital was deliberately set.
The force labelled the fire arson in a news release Thursday and asked witnesses to come forward so they can identify a possible suspect.
The fire was credited with making a COVID-19 outbreak at the hospital worse because staff needed to move patients to safety. More than 100 patients and staff were infected.
“The arson at Burnaby Hospital placed challenges on hospital services and patients,” police said. “The emergency department could not admit patients for a period of time and patients were diverted to other hospitals. Medical appointments and some surgeries were also rescheduled.”
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Police have released a photo of an individual near the hospital wearing a plaid shirt, toque, and glasses. This person is not a suspect at this time, but police want to identify them.
They’re asking all staff working on November 15 who may have witnessed something unusual or suspicious to talk to police.
“You might think your observation is minor or unimportant, but it might be the piece of information that our investigators needs,” said Cpl. Mike Kalanj.
Burnaby RCMP has set up a dedicated tip line for the hospital fire at 604-646-9522 and [email protected]. Tips can also be submitted anonymously via Crime Stoppers.