Dorothy Westerman
Northern News Services

Inuvik (May 24/04) - A 15-year-old youth has been charged with arson after the Samuel Hearne secondary school gymnasium was set on fire early May 17.

The school was to re-open that same day after the recent collapse of the foyer due to snow build-up.

Inuvik elder Ivy Ekaksak sits safely on her step as the nearby Samuel Hearne secondary school gymnasium burns, May 17. - Dorothy Westerman/NNSL photo

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"It was a difficult fire to access," Julie Miller, captain of the Inuvik fire department said.

One firefighter, Duane Debastien, lost part of a finger when it became pinned between a wall and the elevated basket in which he was standing.

Twenty-two firefighters were called to the scene at 6:28 a.m.

The fire was declared under control at 10:30 a.m. and extinguished at 3:30 p.m., Miller said.

Because of high smoke volume and debris in the area, Miller said a section of wall had to be removed to gain access.

Miller said inadequate equipment at the department meant some heavy equipment had to be brought in from local contractors to assist in the fire.

"It goes to show people the seriousness of arson," she noted.

A person could have lost their life as a result, she said.

Brian Lemax, superintendent of the department of Public Works and Services in Inuvik, said the gymnasium is now considered unsafe for use and will not re-open before the end of the school year.

Water, heating and electrical systems are undergoing repair.

Lemax said the classroom section may be open tomorrow, May 25.

James Anderson, superintendent of schools for the Beaufort-Delta Education Council, said there is no word yet about the cost of repairs, but clean up is underway.

He said classes were underway last week for students in alternate buildings, including Aurora College.

School principal Peter Hough said the last few weeks have been hectic ones all around.

"But if nothing else goes wrong, hopefully we'll be back by Tuesday."