Norman Wells RCMP charge a suspect following an investigation into two fires

September 14, 2026 - Norman Wells, Northwest Territories
From: Northwest Territories RCMP

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At approximately 1:30 a.m., on August 31st, Norman Wells RCMP received a call for service to respond to a suspicious fire at two vacant residences on Franklin Avenue.

RCMP responded to the locations along with the Norman Wells Fire Department and observed two log houses engulfed in flames. The residences were deemed a total loss. 

Norman Wells RCMP started an investigation and requested public assistance in gathering information.

“Arsons are very difficult to prove and often involve complex investigations. It was only due to the community coming forward with information that enabled us to form the grounds required for an arrest”, says Cpl. Justin Helm, Norman Wells RCMP Detachment Commander.

Thanks to information provided by the community, a suspect was identified by Norman Wells RCMP, Fabian Kelly. Kelly was apprehended on September 2nd, 2026, and has since been charged.

Fabian Kelly of Norman Wells was charged with;

• One count of Arson, contrary to section 434 of the Criminal Code 
• One count of Trespass at night, contrary to section 177 of the Criminal Code

Fabian Kelly was held for a court appearance and was subsequently released by the courts on a Release Order.

Anyone with information on suspicious activity is asked to contact the Norman Wells RCMP at 867-587-1111, or Crime Stoppers at https://p3tips.com

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