(Lethbridge News Now)

By David Opinko/LethbridgeNewsNOW

Man arrested in connection to grass fires on Siksika Nation, not connected to church fire

Jul 2, 2021 | 11:41 PM

SIKSIKA NATION, AB – Gleichen RCMP have arrested a man following a series of intentional grass fires that were set on July 1.

Philip John Strange, 40, of Langdon, has been charged with arson – damage to property and trespassing on a reserve.

“Investigation to date has revealed extensive property damage to the Siksika land to include areas used for traditional ceremonies and offerings,” reads a media release from RCMP.

Gleichen RCMP Sgt. Scott Mercer says there is no discernable link between this arson and the deliberate fires set at Catholic or Anglican Churches earlier this week.

“This past week has been trying on the Siksika people. These intentional acts of property damage affect the well being and security of everyone that lives here. We are asking people to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity immediately to the police.”

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Following a bail hearing, Strange was released from custody and is scheduled to appear in Siksika Provincial Court on August 12.

RCMP are still seeking information on the two church fires from this past week. Anyone with information is asked to call Gleichen RCMP at 403-734-3923, Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1-800-222-8477, or your local police.