July 10, 2025
RED FM News Desk
Two youths have been charged with manslaughter and arson in connection with a fatal house fire in Wetaskiwin, Alberta.
RCMP say officers responded to a fire in the central Alberta city, located south of Edmonton, in December. Inside the burned home, police discovered the body of 67-year-old Donald Robert. Investigators quickly deemed his death suspicious.
A witness at the scene reported seeing someone fleeing from the burning home with their clothing on fire, adding to investigators’ suspicions of foul play.
On Wednesday, RCMP arrested a girl and a boy in connection with the case. Both face charges of manslaughter and arson.
Due to provisions in the Youth Criminal Justice Act, their identities cannot be released.
Mounties say the investigation was complex and involved gathering witness statements, forensic evidence, and reviewing the circumstances surrounding the deadly blaze. Police have not released further details about the motive or how the fire was set.
The RCMP say they remain committed to working with local residents and partner agencies to ensure the safety of the Wetaskiwin community.
This report by The Canadian Press was first published July 10, 2025.
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