Two teens are facing multiple charges after allegedly burning a stolen minivan Monday.
Nanaimo Fire Rescue and Nanaimo RCMP were called after two males were seen lighting a minivan on fire and fleeing the scene near the Esso gas station on Northfield Road shortly before 9:30 p.m.
"A small crowd was on scene who helped identify where the suspects took off to," said Const. Gary O'Brien, Nanaimo RCMP spokesman.
The Pontiac Torrent minivan had been stolen earlier in the day.
Police dog services were called, which tracked down and arrested the suspects.
O'Brien said the police preliminary investigation indicates alcohol fuelled the incident.
"Alcohol was a contributing factor and it appears the vehicle had been stolen," O'Brien said. "They were driving it through an off-road area where they got stuck and, for whatever reason, they decided to torch the vehicle."
Michael Kalicum, 19, and the second suspect, who is 16 and cannot be identified, appeared in Nanaimo provincial court Tuesday and was charged with arson, theft of a motor vehicle, theft over $5,000, possession of stolen property and resisting arrest.
Both suspects were released on bail to appear at Nanaimo provincial court Nov. 17.