A man has been fined $25,000 after an investigation surrounding the largest wildfire in Nova Scotia’s history. Dalton Stewart, aged 23, received the penalty in Barrington provincial court on Thursday without making any statements. The fine, part of a joint recommendation by the Crown and defense, also mandates that Stewart undergo educational training on wildfire prevention.
Stewart had previously pleaded guilty to one charge under the Forest Act, while two other charges were either dismissed or withdrawn. The court record on Thursday outlined an agreed statement of facts regarding the incident. Stewart confessed to igniting a tire on fire on private property near Barrington Lake while under the influence of alcohol and in the company of friends on May 25, 2023. Before leaving, he tried to extinguish the fire but was unsuccessful due to his intoxicated state.
The Barrington Lake wildfire ravaged over 23,000 hectares, destroyed approximately 60 structures, and displaced numerous residents. Senior Crown attorney Brian Cox acknowledged the severity of the fire but commended Stewart’s cooperation with authorities as a mitigating factor. Cox emphasized that while the imposed fine cannot reverse the devastation caused, it remains a significant deterrent, especially considering the fire extinguishing costs amounted to around $8 million.
During the hearing, Judge Paul Scovil expressed that no sentence could adequately address the harm inflicted. He condemned the reckless act of starting a fire in such dry conditions, labeling it as a “drunken tire fire.” Melissa Nickerson, a victim who lost her home in Thomasville, N.S., tearfully recounted the emotional and financial toll her family endured due to the wildfire.
The wardens of Barrington and Shelburne municipalities issued a joint statement post-hearing, emphasizing their dedication to recovery, healing, and enhancing resilience for the future. Despite the outcome, Chief Darrell Locke of the Shelburne volunteer fire department voiced disappointment, advocating for stricter penalties to deter similar incidents in the future.
Stewart’s lawyer, Philip Star, highlighted his client’s acceptance of responsibility and financial constraints. Star mentioned that an RCMP investigation did not find grounds for arson charges and speculated on the possibility of other fires in the region contributing to the wildfire. The potential for civil actions following the incident remains uncertain.
The court proceedings underscored the lasting impact of the Barrington Lake wildfire on individuals and communities, emphasizing the importance of accountability and prevention in safeguarding against future disasters.