2 Stanley Park fires blamed on arson attacks

Arson is being blamed for two more suspicious fires that broke out in Stanley Park overnight Tuesday, causing extensive damage to one building at the Brockton Oval.

The first fire was reported around 11:30 p.m. PT at Malkin Bowl where a dumpster was set on fire, causing minor damage to a fence, according to a statement issued by police Sgt. Randy Fincham.

The second fire was reported a short time later at Brockton Oval where a second dumpster fire spread to the roof of the clubhouse.

"Damage to the clubhouse is believed to be extensive. Fire crews were able to contain it to the south end of the building. Investigators will be returning to Brockton Oval this morning to assess the extent of the damage," said Fincham.

But before the inspectors returned, the smoldering fire in the roof flared up again, forcing firefighters to return to the scene to fight it once again around 8 a.m.

Damage to the men's changing room in the building was estimated at $200,000, according to a statement released by Fire and Rescue Services Captain Gabe Roder

Fire inspectors say both fires appear to be arson attacks, but police are not linking them to previous arsons in the park.

In June, the old station building at the miniature train station in the park was destroyed in an arson attack. Another fire was also set near the Vancouver Police Department's mounted unit stables about a week later.

During the winter three squatter camps were also set on fire in the park one night in January.

Anyone with information about the fires is asked to call Vancouver police.