RCMP investigating Erickson arson
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Hey there, time traveller!
This article was published 08/07/2023 (1000 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.
The Manitoba RCMP is looking into a fire that was deliberately set in Erickson early Sunday morning, which resulted in the torching of a vehicle and trailer that contained an expensive motorcycle collection.
Shoal Lake RCMP and other first responders were called to resident Danny Thomas’ trailer located on Main Street around 12:25 a.m. after receiving reports of a fire in Erickson.
While no one was injured in the blaze, a RCMP representative told the Sun on Tuesday that the vehicle was completely destroyed, while the rear half of the trailer burned along with its contents.
These images show the remains of Danny Thomas' trailer, which was deliberately set on fire in Erickson early Sunday morning, according to the RCMP. (Submitted)
At this time, the RCMP believe this fire was an act of arson and have notified the Office of the Fire Commissioner.
Talking to the Sun directly on Monday, Thomas said the potential loss of his motorcycle collection, which he estimates to be worth around $100,000, was “heartbreaking,” since he has been collecting and tinkering with these kinds of vehicles since he was a teenager.
According to Thomas, who is now 64, his current collection featured a variety of vintage British motorcycles, including old Triumph and BSA models that he was in the middle of rebuilding.
“That was my inheritance,” Thomas said from his hospital bed at the Brandon Regional Health Centre, where he’s undergoing treatment for myeloma and a severe back injury.
“I was going to work on them and finish them and sell them, take them to some shows. But then I lost my health two years ago.”
Thomas also mentioned that the trailer contained various other items like a high-watt amp alongside some cash and gold, although he wasn’t sure if these items were destroyed in the fire as well.
At this point, Thomas is doubtful that he can replace the motorcycles that were burned, since they were rare models made from parts that aren’t in circulation anymore.
The RCMP continues to investigate this matter, although no arrests have been made as of Friday morning.
Anyone with information on the incident is encouraged to contact the Shoal Lake (204-759-2390) or Wasagaming (204-848-2659) RCMP detachments.
» kdarbyson@brandonsun.com
» Twitter: @KyleDarbyson