Arson charge laid for Wetaskiwin Memorial Arts Centre fire
Published 9:44 am Tuesday, September 15, 2026
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An Edmonton man has been charged with arson in relation to the blaze that claimed the Wetaskiwin Memorial Arts Centre this summer.
The historical building, built in 1947, burned down in a fire responders fought overnight, June 6 to 7, 2026.
Police believed the cause to be suspicious and issued a release, asking the public for dashcam or video surveillance footage of the area during the time leading up to the fire.
An investigation was conducted by the Wetaskiwin General Investigation Section (GIS) and Wetaskiwin RCMP General Duty.
On Sept. 15, 2026, RCMP announced 42-year-old Bhawani (Shaun) Tah, a resident of Edmonton had been charged with committing arson for fraudulent purposes.
Tah was arrested and released on an appearance notice and is scheduled to appear in the Alberta Court of Justice in Wetaskiwin, on Sept. 15.
On June 6, 2026, around 8:20 p.m., Wetaskiwin RCMP were informed of smoke coming from the Memorial Arts Centre (located at 5206 50 St.).
Wetaskiwin Fire Services responded with multiple apparatus, along with mutual aid from the Millet Fire Department (MFD).
The centre was a historical building, serving as a community hub. As a large venue, it was the host of many weddings, city programs and other events over the decades.
READ MORE: RCMP asking for public’s help with arts centre fire investigation