(UPDATE: Aug. 31 @ 2:25 pm) - The Maple Ridge RCMP says an arrest has been made in connection to the graffiti that was spray painted onto boulders at Golden Ears Provincial Park in early August.
"The alleged suspect turned himself into police last week and has since been released on a promise to appear in court," an RCMP update explains.
"The investigation remains ongoing as officers continue to gather evidence, obtain additional information, and prepare reports for potential criminal proceedings."
RCMP investigators are working closely with BC Parks staff, who are conducting a parallel investigation under the BC Parks Act.
The Maple Ridge RCMP update noted that there has been significant public interest in the matter and understands the public's concerns about the case.
However, it urged people to avoid drawing conclusions until all the facts have been fully examined.
(Original story: Aug. 25 @ 6:30 pm) - Graffiti spray painted onto boulders in Golden Ears Provincial Park has drawn the attention of the RCMP.
A statement from the Maple Ridge RCMP says investigators are working with BC Parks staff to identify the person responsible.
The graffiti was spray painted onto the rock in early August following a drowning death in the same area the day prior.
While the RCMP recognizes that the graffiti appears to be “an attempt at memorializing a drowning victim in the area,” it is still considered a criminal offence.
“Such acts can harm the environment, diminish the experience of other park users and create unnecessary cleanup costs for the community,” an RCMP release explained.
“We extend our sympathies to the family and the friends of the man who drowned and encourage those wishing to pay respects to do so through appropriate, legal means.”
In a statement provided to KelownaNow, BC Parks also recognized that the spray painted message appeared to be a tribute for the drowning victim.
“While we recognize that this event has had a significant impact on family members, friends and the broader community, vandalism within protected areas is not appropriate and can negatively affect the natural environment and visitor experience,” the statement noted.
According to BC Parks, the graffiti is in an area of Gold Creek that is well known for its significant safety hazards.
There are fences, warning signs and area closures at this location to discourage access and help protect public safety.
“BC Parks is assessing options for removing the graffiti; however, any response must be undertaken safely,” the statement continued. “The affected area is difficult to access and presents serious hazards to staff and contractors.”
While evaluating whether safe removal is feasible, BC Parks is also looking into whether natural seasonal high-water flows might remove the graffiti over time.
As the RCMP continues to investigate the incident, it is urging anyone with more information, including witnesses from the scene on the day it happened, to contact the Maple Ridge RCMP at 604-463-6251.
