After fleeing their home in Ochre Pit Cove due to a devastating wildfire, Eric and Karen Parsons received news about their property’s status from the RCMP after a two-week wait. The couple learned that their house was still standing, but it had been ransacked, with their blue 2022 Can-Am Outlander ATV stolen. This incident has left them deeply distressed, wondering about the extent of the theft from their residence.
Ochre Pit Cove was severely impacted by a wildfire that destroyed over 10,000 hectares in Conception Bay North, affecting multiple communities in Newfoundland’s Avalon Peninsula. This disaster resulted in the loss of 59 structures in Ochre Pit Cove and 86 in neighboring Western Bay, which had a total population of 443 people based on the 2021 census data.
Erica Emberley, Eric’s daughter, expressed shock at the theft, emphasizing the added emotional strain it has brought amidst the already devastating situation. She highlighted the irony that the perpetrator might also be a victim of the wildfires, compounding the community’s suffering.
The RCMP, represented by Cpl. Jesse O’Donaghey, is investigating multiple suspected theft incidents, including the Parsons’ case. O’Donaghey acknowledged the challenges faced by evacuees in assessing their losses and ensuring property security. Law enforcement officers are actively patrolling evacuated areas to prevent looting, even conducting patrols by boat to deter unauthorized access.
Emberley speculated that the thief likely entered the community through trails leading to Ochre Pit Cove, further complicating the situation for her family. With restricted access to their home and uncertainty about when they can return to evaluate the damage, the Parsons are enduring a distressing ordeal. Emberley expressed profound disappointment at the loss, emphasizing the hard work her parents put into their home and retirement plans.
The community’s resilience and unity in facing these challenges were highlighted, emphasizing the need for support and vigilance to safeguard affected areas. The ongoing investigations and security measures aim to ensure the safety and protection of properties in evacuated zones, offering reassurance to displaced residents awaiting their return.