2 teens charged with arson after fire seriously damages remote First Nation's airport terminal

A pair of 13-year-olds from Webequie First Nation have been charged in connection with a fire at the remote community's airport terminal, resulting in about half a million dollars in damages.

The Nishnawbe Aski Police Service (NAPS) says officers received a call for service about the blaze in the northwestern Ontario community on Saturday evening. 

"When officers arrived, they observed and confirmed the terminal building to be on fire. Community firefighters were also dispatched to help put out the fire and stop it from spreading to nearby structures," NAPS said in a news release issued Monday.

The fire was brought under control before 2 a.m. on Sunday, but the building sustained significant damage.

Over the weekend, two youth suspects were identified. NAPS said the first was located and arrested at a residence on Sunday, while the second suspect turned themselves in that afternoon.

The 13-year-olds, both male, were each charged with arson — damage to property, and two counts of mischief over $5,000.

Fewer than 400 people live in Webequie First Nation, which is about 540 kilometres north of Thunder Bay. The Oji-Cree community is part of Treaty 9.

The NAPS criminal investigations unit is leading the ongoing investigation. The suspects appeared in bail court on Monday and were remanded into custody with future appearance dates, said NAPS.

Plans underway for temporary terminal

Webequie First Nation is only accessible by plane or winter road.

The community posted a public notice on its Facebook page Monday morning about the fire, saying the airport terminal building "is not safe for use at this time."

"Webequie First Nation Chief and Council are working closely with the Ministry of Transportation (MTO) to arrange a temporary shelter for airport operations. MTO is also working on plans for a permanent new terminal," it said.

"Thank you for your understanding and patience as we work through this situation."