Prince Albert Fire Department investigators have concluded that multiple fires, caused by humans, destroyed the Prince Albert Salvation Army building on Christmas night. Deputy Chief Alex Paul stated that the findings have been handed over to the police for further investigation into the cause and locations of the fires.
The Salvation Army confirmed that the community services building at 900 Central Ave. has been completely lost due to the fire that began at around 8 p.m. on December 25. Two Prince Albert Fire Department investigators and an independent investigator, appointed by the building’s insurance company, gathered evidence from the charred remains in the northern Saskatchewan city.
According to Paul, it was discovered that the fires were intentionally ignited at various points within the building. Although the Salvation Army had insurance for the approximately 13,000-square-foot structure, the extent of coverage for the damages remains uncertain.
Major Ed Dean of the Prince Albert Salvation Army expressed deep sorrow over the deliberate destruction of the building, labeling it as a significant loss. Dean expressed disappointment in the intentional act of arson within their premises.
The Salvation Army aims to reconstruct at the original Central Avenue location, emphasizing the community’s need for a new building rather than another parking lot. In the meantime, a temporary setup has been established at the Union Centre downtown to continue providing essential services for the homeless.
Despite the temporary location, some services previously offered by the Salvation Army, such as laundry and showers, are currently unavailable. The organization has arranged temporary facilities at the Church of the Nazarene to continue its ministry work.
Dean encouraged those willing to assist the Salvation Army to reach out by calling the office, sending donations via mail, or contributing online to support their ongoing efforts.