Arrest made in Golden Ears Provincial Park graffiti investigation

A man has been arrested in connection with graffiti on rocks along Gold Creek in Golden Ears Provincial Park, Maple Ridge RCMP say.

The alleged suspect turned himself in to police last week and was released on a promise to appear in court. Police received a public report about the painted rocks on Aug. 17.

Witnesses said the spray paint may have been intended as a memorial for a man who drowned in Gold Creek on Aug. 3. His fall into the water near the Lower Falls was witnessed by family and friends, who were unable to save him. A social-media video of the rocks showed a message dated Aug. 4.

RCMP said officers are still gathering evidence and information and preparing reports for possible criminal proceedings. BC Parks staff are conducting a separate investigation under the BC Parks Act.

Police asked the public not to draw conclusions before the facts are fully examined. Anyone with information who has not spoken with investigators can call Maple Ridge RCMP at 604-463-6251 and cite file 2026-15782.