HALIFAX: The government of Nova Scotia has issued a significant fine to the man responsible for starting the largest wildfire in the province’s history. Dalton Stuart was fined $25,000 for his role in causing the devastating Barrington Lake wildfire in the summer of 2023, which destroyed thousands of hectares of land and consumed multiple homes.
The investigation determined that Stuart was drinking with friends near Barrington Lake when he set a tire on fire, which then spread and escalated into the massive blaze. The wildfire ultimately scorched 23,000 hectares and necessitated the evacuation of approximately 6,000 people. Tragically, the fire also destroyed 60 homes and cottages, along with 150 other structures.
The 23-year-old Stuart was penalized for two offences: lighting a fire on privately owned land without the owner’s permission and failing to attempt to stop the fire from spreading. The fine serves as a potent reminder of the severe consequences of negligence regarding fire safety, especially during dry conditions.
