A 57-year-old Saanich man known to police was arrested on Wednesday, in connections with two fires deliberately set in Saanich.
Saanich Police are recommending two charges of Arson to Endanger Life.
The man is accused of setting the fire inside the Home Depot store on Shelbourne St in April. It is believed he entered the store and started the fire in the paint department. The store was evacuated and it was later determined the fire had been intentionally set.
He has also been accused of setting the massive fire on Cedar Hill Road in late May. That fire destroyed a new townhouse complex near the University Heights Mall – the complex was within walking distance of Home Depot fire. The townhouse complex was under construction and was completely destroyed. Occupants from an adjacent townhouse complex were evacuated and no one was seriously injured. Numerous people from the neighbourhood were displaced from their homes.
In a press release, Saanich Police Major Crime Detectives say they spent many hours speaking to witnesses, reviewing many hours of video surveillance, interviewing people and searching for evidence at both the scenes.
“These fires caused a significant amount of damage and fortunately no one was injured.” A/Sgt. Jereme Leslie said.
“We are pleased to announce that an arrest has been made and would like to thank the public for their support and understanding during these investigations.”
The suspects first court appearance is today, and cannot be named until he is formally charged.
