Man charged following Shelburne County wildfire investigation pleads guilty

A man has pleaded guilty to charges related to a historic wildfire in Shelburne County, N.S., last year. Dalton Stewart, 23, admitted to leaving a fire unattended when it was not completely extinguished, violating the Forests Act. His lawyer, Philip Star, entered the plea on his behalf in Barrington provincial court.

Stewart confessed to lighting a fire in the forest without permission. However, he did not admit to starting the Barrington wildfire that burned over 23,000 hectares, destroyed around 60 structures, and displaced thousands of residents. The Crown and defense are working on an agreed statement of facts for the next hearing in January.

While Stewart faces two other charges under the Forests Act, they may not proceed. Samantha Crowell, a resident affected by the wildfire, was forced to leave her home for 10 days. She expressed that Stewart’s guilty plea does not bring much comfort to her, as she continues to deal with the aftermath, including insurance claims and property repairs.

Crowell shared that her son is helping clean up fallen trees and dead wood on their property. She acknowledged that those who suffered greater losses may feel differently about Stewart’s plea. The community is still recovering from the devastating effects of the wildfire, and the legal proceedings serve as a reminder of the impact of irresponsible actions in forest management.