Arsonist in Mayerthorpe Bridge fire arrested

Monday, May 2, 2016, 9:12 AM - After a CN trestle bridge went up in flames in the Alberta town of Mayerthorpe in a case of suspected arson, authorities have announced an arrest -- and the suspect is not only a firefighter, but also the son of the town's former mayor.

The town announced Lawson Schalm had been arrested in relation to 18 arson charges, including the bridge. The town confirms Schalm, 19, was a member of the Mayerthorpe Fire Department – Lac Ste. Anne County Fire Services.

Former Mayerthorpe mayor Albert Schalm told CBC the family was "shocked" at the news, but was supportive.

"There's an unconditional love for my son," Schalm told CBC. "No matter how this ends up, there will always be a dinner plate at my table for my son. He is always welcome in my home."

The CN bridge fire forced the evacuation of several nearby homes, with others being put under an evacuation alert, with residents preparing to leave on short notice.

Although only the bridge was destroyed, its loss leaves a serious gap in rail infrastructure in the area, with a major impact on the oil and lumber industries, according to Mayerthorpe fire chief Randy Schroeder.

Schroeder told the CBC Schalm was present during the fight against the CN bridge fire on April 26, along with four others set during a period of suspicious fires.

"We're certainly very shocked, bewildered, wounded and a little hurt on the discovery of this," he told CBC. "The discovery that one of our own potentially lit 18 fires is definitely affecting our station, for sure."

The town says counselling will be available to all fire department members who need it.

"The Fire Department members all emphasize support and understanding to Lawson Schalm’s family with respect to this difficult situation, a press release reads. "The Fire Department and Town officials will handle this situation with understanding, compassion and the desire and wish that Lawson Schalm receive the help he needs."

SOURCES: CBC | Town of Mayerthorpe