Terry Halifax
Northern News Services

Inuvik (Oct 11/02) - Police are investigating an arson allegedly committed by children that occurred in Inuvik last week.

The Inuvik Fire department responded to a house fire last Tuesday at 16b Bonnetplume Road at 4:30 p.m.

Lieut. Julie Miller said the fire was obviously an arson.

"It was an intentionally set fire," Miller said. "Three couches were set on fire; one in the centre and one on each side of the house."

"We did find evidence of incendiary devices, such as fuel, lighter and gloves," she added.

There was minimal smoke damage done to the interior of the home.

"Most of the damage was done to the exterior of the house," Miller said. "More-or-less charring of the wood underneath, but the intent was definitely there."

If the fire had a few more minutes to ignite, Miller said it could have been "a major incident."

Inuvik RCMP are investigating the suspicious fire.

"The fire was set by children," said Staff Sgt. Mark Wharton. "We have a suspect who is under 12."