Man trashes Bella Bella school

Bella Bella police are investigating after a man walked into the community’s only school and went on a rampage Friday, causing about $100,000 in damage only days before school is set to resume.

The heartbreaking incident comes just weeks after arsonists destroyed the community’s only general store.

According to RCMP, a man worked alone Friday as he entered the Bella Bella Community School and proceeded to smash televisions, computers, smart boards and windows.

He then also dumped paint throughout the school, on floors and computers.

“The damage sustained to the school was estimated at $100,000,” said Const. Lesley Smith. “The community is in shock and the children are visibly upset over this senseless act of violence.”

Smith said prior to the attack, the First Nation community had been anticipating the completion of renovations and upgrades at the school that had been taking place over the past year.

Some 170 students from kindergarten to Grade 12 attend the school, staffed by 56 teachers and employees.

Police are now reviewing surveillance footage in hopes of identifying the man.

Authorities are asking anyone with information about the incident to contact Bella Bella RCMP at 250-957-2388.

On July 12, a fire destroyed the community’s only grocery store, and spread to the adjacent liquor store, a post office and a café. The blaze left Bella Bella residents with limited access to food and supplies.

Hours after the blaze, police arrested three girls — aged 13, 15 and 16 — in connection with the incident.

Police were expected to forward a report of their investigation to Crown Counsel, who will decide “whether charges against the girls are appropriate.”