News that a Mayerthorpe teen has been arrested in connection to a series of arsons in the town has left friends and family shocked.
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Albert Schalm said he was shocked to learn that his 19-year-old son, Lawson, was arrested and charged with 18 counts of arson, including the blaze at the CN trestle bridge.
Schalm describes Lawson as a “really good kid” who always had a twinkle in his eye and could make people laugh.
“He was outgoing. Everybody loved him. He’s a great kid.”
The former mayor said his son had not been exhibiting any unusual behaviour recently.
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Schalm said the family will not waver in their support for the 19-year-old.
“We continue to love him. We will always love him. It’s unconditional love. It will never change. We love him dearly and support him in whatever direction this will go in the future.”
He has not spoken to Lawson since the arrest but plans to be present at his first court appearance.
Theresa Wallace, 16, has known Schalm for several years. The Grade 11 student calls him a “super nice kid.”
“I don’t think he’s capable of this. He’s… super laid-back. I don’t know, he’s a good kid. He’s shy, totally shy, but once you get to know him he’s super nice,” she said.
Wallace said Schalm, who was set to graduate Grade 12 this year, was involved with school plays and other programs.
“It’s kind of appalling when I found out he got arrested,” she said.
“Everybody is just focusing on if he’s okay. We’re more worried about his well-being than anything else.”
Lawson remains in police custody and will make his first court appearance at Stony Plain Provincial Court on Wednesday.