This was the scene on March 21. (Submitted photo)

By Nigel Maxwell

Arson investigation

Prince Albert cabinet maker says shop fire sparked by encampment

Mar 26, 2025 | 12:00 PM

The owner of Hesje Cabinets and Design in Prince Albert is confirming ongoing struggles related to trespassing and vandalism in their compound.

In the ealy morning hours of March 21, a fire caused extensive damage to the shop building.

While experiencing heavy smoke and flames, firefighters were successful in confining and extinguishing the fire to one area of the building before it could spread to the rest of the structure.

“The fire inspector has confirmed that the fire was caused from an encampment that was set up along the back side of the shop,” co-owner Trevor Hesje told paNOW.

While noting they do have insurance to cover the loss, Trevor explained it is a family operated business that has three generations currently working there and so they look forward to being back in that same location, serving the community in the future.

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“When something like this happens your life changes overnight. It’s frustrating to receive a call that something you have worked to build for years has been destroyed,” he said.

A burned mattress and pallet were visible behind the shop. (Nigel Maxwell/ paNOW Staff)

In the interim, while looking into what options are available at their location in Prince Albert, Trevor confirmed they are going to continue with business out of their second location in Birch Hills.

The fire last week represents one of several similar incidents.

On March 24, at 4:25 p.m., the Prince Albert Fire Department responded to the Rotary Trail East of Central Ave. for a small encampment fire. Firefighters arrived and found a small area of garbage burning in the bush. There was no damage to any property.

On March 20, at approximately 4:30 p.m., the PAFD responded to the intersection of 36 St. and sixth Ave. W. for a fire in the bushes. On arrival and investigation, there was an large encampment fire. Firefighters extinguished the fire and there was no damage to report.

On March 16, at approximately 7:30 a.m., the PAFD responded to the unit block of 11 St. E. for an outside fire. Upon arrival, a small encampment fire was discovered and extinguished.

A recent agreement signed between the City of Prince Albert and Riverbank Development Corporation (RBDC), will see the city responsible for encampments with financial help from the federal government for at least the next year.

When asked what he would like to see done, Trevor noted they have already done everything to protect their property.

“We are surrounded by chain-link fence, a locked, gated compound as well as cameras and alarm systems. We don’t know what more can be done,” he said.

On Wednesday, a spokesperson for the Prince Albert Fire Dept. confirmed the ongoing investigation has been turned over to the Prince Albert Police Service.

nigel.maxwell@pattisonmedia.com

On Blue Sky: @nigelmaxwell.bsky.social