An outdoor pool is being forced to close in the Fraser Valley after a serious incident of vandalism.
The City of Maple Ridge said on Tuesday that the Hammond Outdoor Pool will be closed for the rest of the summer.
Staff found broken glass in the pool, which impacted the pool’s infrastructure and is now unsafe for people to use.
The vandalism is believed to have occurred on Aug. 26 evening.
Staff are assessing the damage to determine the repairs that need to be conducted.
Police were notified of the vandalism on Aug. 27 and discovered broken glass on the pool deck and in the pool.
"This is an active and ongoing investigation, so no further information can be provided at this time,” says a media officer with Ridge Meadows RCMP.
Director of recreation services Cidalia Martin appreciates the patience of the community as they work through the situation.
“We understand the importance of the Hammond Pool, especially during the summer months and recognize the inconvenience this causes to our community,” says Martin.
Staff are working on offering activities at local parks and spray parks for kids and families to use during the upcoming warm weather over the long weekend.
Recently, a man was charged with mischief in connection to damaging another B.C. pool. On Oct. 29, 2022, police responded to Fernie Aquatic Centre after a report of extensive damage. Police said the damage to the pool exceeded $30,000 resulting in the pool being closed and a swim meet having to be cancelled.
Aden Shatalow-Dominick, 22, was charged with mischief over $5,000 in connection to the damage at Fernie Aquatic Centre. This matter is still before the courts and his next court appearance is on Sept. 12.
Many people took to social media to voice their anger over the Maple Ridge pool closure saying "what a shame" and "heartbreaking and so frustrating!"
"The Hammond pool is such a fun space for the kids, how sad," wrote Chelsey McDonald.
Others questioned if cameras or security surveillance footage captured the incident.
People are being encouraged to visit Albion Community Centre, which does not have a pool. The Maple Ridge Leisure Centre is also closed for annual maintenance and won’t reopen until Sept. 10.
Anyone with information about the incident is being encouraged to call RCMP at 604-463-6251 and refer to file number RM2024-17319.
