'Act of mischief' caused flood that closed B.C. aquatic centre, police say
Police in northern B.C. say they believe a recent flood at an aquatic centre was intentional.
Mounties said nearly 500,000 litres (130,000 gallons) of water flooded the maintenance room at the Vanderhoof Aquatic Centre on Dec. 23, causing "extensive damage" to the building's mechanical heating and filtration systems for its pools.
"The investigation to date has revealed evidence to suggest that the flooding was intentionally caused," said Vanderhoof RCMP in a news release Monday, one month after the incident occurred.
Mounties did not elaborate on the nature of the evidence they had uncovered.
"We are actively investigating the act of mischief that caused approximately $500,000 damage to the pool systems," said Cpl. Steven McLean in the release.
The aquatic centre has been closed since the flood. A Jan. 11 update on the YMCA of Northern B.C. website indicates that the timeline for reopening is eight weeks.
"The YMCA is working collaboratively with the District of Vanderhoof on a comprehensive plan for repairs, as well as how to expedite the work required to reopen as quickly as possible," the update reads.
"During this closure, the required annual pool maintenance will also be completed to avoid a service interruption in September."
The YMCA says it will share more details on its reopening plan "as they are finalized."
Vanderhoof RCMP says its investigation is ongoing and "remains a priority." The detachment is asking anyone with information to contact it at 250-567-2222.
CTVNews.ca Top Stories
From outer space? Sask. farmers baffled after discovering strange wreckage in field
A family of fifth generation farmers from Ituna, Sask. are trying to find answers after discovering several strange objects lying on their land.
Broadcaster and commentator Rex Murphy dead at 77: National Post
The National Post is reporting that Rex Murphy, the pundit and columnist who hosted a national call-in radio show for decades, has died.
Pearson gold heist suspect arrested after flying into Toronto from India
Another suspect is in custody in connection with the gold heist at Toronto Pearson International Airport last year, police say.
Millions of cyberattacks per hour as B.C. government investigates multiple breaches
Careful attention to government statements and legislation is required to get a handle on the level of risk British Columbians’ information is under, as investigators probe multiple breaches under a continued barrage of attacks.
Ontario family receives massive hospital bill as part of LTC law, refuses to pay
A southwestern Ontario woman has received an $8,400 bill from a hospital in Windsor, Ont., after she refused to put her mother in a nursing home she hated -- and she says she has no intention of paying it.
Debate on abortion rights erupts on Parliament Hill, Poilievre vows he won't legislate
A Conservative government led by Pierre Poilievre would not legislate on, nor use the notwithstanding clause, on abortion, his office says, as anti-abortion protesters gather on Parliament Hill.
Justin and Hailey Bieber are expecting their first child together
Hailey and Justin Bieber are going to be parents. The couple announced the news on Thursday on Instagram, both sharing a video that showcases Hailey Bieber's growing belly.
Here are the ultraprocessed foods you most need to avoid, according to a 30-year study
Studies have shown that ultraprocessed foods can have a detrimental impact on health. But 30 years of research show they don’t all have the same impact.
New 'Lord of the Rings' film coming in 2026
The Oscar-winning team behind the nearly US$6 billion blockbuster 'Lord of the Rings' and 'The Hobbit' trilogies is reuniting to produce two new films.