RCMP investigating suspicious events at a Rutland construction site

Kelowna RCMP is investigating a string of suspicious incidents at a construction site in Rutland.

Three separate incidents have been reported at the site in the 600 block of Rutland Road North so far this month.

The first occurred on Dec. 6 when RCMP were called to the site by the Kelowna Fire Department after an item designed to cause damage to a natural gas line was discovered on the property.

On Dec. 15, Mounties responded to a report of a suspicious person at the site. The individual had left the scene by the time officers arrive, though it was later discovered that the person had gained access to the garage area and was seen walking around the property.

The most recent incident occurred on Dec. 21, when accelerants were located near the natural gas line. Police did not release details on the nature or description of the items in order to protect the integrity of the investigation.

Mounties have released a video of the suspect from the Dec. 6 incident and a photo of the suspect from the Dec. 21 incident.

All of these incidents occurred in the early morning hours between 6:00 and 6:30 a.m.

“We are dealing with three separate incidents and believe there to be one male suspect. The motive is not known but the actions of the individual, had they been successful in their efforts, had the potential to cause serious damage to property and would have endangered the safety of anyone who would have been nearby at the time. We need your help to identify the person responsible.” Said Cpl. Tammy Lobb, Media Relations Officer for the Kelowna RCMP.

Mounties say the property owner has increased security measures at the site in an effort to prevent future incidents from occurring.

The public is urged to call 911 immediately if they witness suspicious activities around the site. Anyone with information related to the suspect or these incidents are asked to contact the RCMP by emailing E_Kelowna_General_Enquiries@rcmp-grc.gc.ca or to make an anonymous report through the Crime Stoppers website or by calling 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS).