Numerous emergency responder agencies came together to assist after reports were received that someone had opened several fire hydrants in a residential area last evening.
Just before 11 p.m., witnesses reported water gushing from area fire hydrants near the intersection of North Dairy Road and Doncaster Drive.
Saanich Police, Saanich Fire, Victoria Police and Victoria Fire Departments all responded to the area to provide assistance.
Investigators were able to use witness information to identify a person of interest, and subsequently arrested a 42 year old area resident for Mischief Over $5000. The suspect was released pending a future court appearance.
“It was determined that there were three separate hydrants that were compromised by the actions of this individual” said Sgt. Steve Eassie. “One of the hydrants was in Victoria, and the remaining two were in Saanich”.
As a result of the large quantity of water spilled from the hydrants, at least one basement of a nearby home in the 1600 block of North Dairy Road was affected, resulting in damages well over $5000. First responders were able to assist the home occupants in moving property to prevent damage to some of the contents of the home.
“This is, simply put, a senseless act and one that utilized resources from numerous agencies” Sgt. Eassie says. The quick action of bystanders and prompt attendance by fire crews to turn off the water likely prevented further damage to other homes in the area.
A VICPD K9 team were able to locate an 18 inch wrench in the area of one of the hydrants which has been determined to be the tool used by the suspect to open the hydrant.
“It would have taken considerable effort for someone to open one hydrant, let alone three” Sgt. Steve Eassie said. “Thankfully, alert witnesses were able to provide key information to assist in identifying the person suspected of this crime”.
File 2015-2583
Sgt. Steve Eassie #158