Three fires that broke out on Hardy Mountain overnight are being investigated as suspicious.
Grand Forks Fire Rescue said Saturday morning it responded to the first two fires at about 9 p.m. Friday after receiving 911 calls. Both were relatively small and extinguished quickly.
A third fire was reported around 2 a.m. Saturday and was initially believed to be about five metres by five metres.
However, the first arriving officer found the blaze had already grown to about 30 metres by 100 metres and requested additional resources, including mutual aid from Christina Lake and the RCMP.
The fire was spreading in all directions but was not close to any structures.
Crews were able to contain the blaze within a couple of hours. Its final size is estimated at 70 metres by 120 metres.
BC Wildfire Service crews attended Saturday morning with Grand Forks Fire Rescue to complete mop-up and ensure the fire was fully extinguished.
The number of fires, along with their proximity and timing, led investigators to consider the circumstances suspicious.
The fires are now under investigation by Grand Forks Fire Rescue, the BC Wildfire Service and RCMP.
Anyone who was in the area and saw unusual activity, people or vehicles, or has relevant security or dash-camera footage is asked to contact Grand Forks RCMP.
Officials are also asking people to avoid speculation or identifying individuals on social media.
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