A 30-year-old Victoria man has been arrested following multiple suspicious fires at the Pacific Institute for Sports Excellence (PISE) at Camosun College on Sunday.
In the early morning of November 25th, firefighters from all three Saanich Fire stations responded to multiple fire alarms at Camosun College’s Interurban campus, starting around 2:15 a.m.
When emergency services arrived, fires were blazing at PISE and another nearby building.
Firefighters went to work and successfully extinguished the flames, however, significant damage to the structures was done. The total value of damage has not been calculated yet, says Saanich police.
As officers contained the area, they found evidence of a smashed window in one of the affected buildings, and discovered the 30-year-old suspect fleeing the scene.
A Saanich police K9 unit was then used to help arrest the Victoria man.
https://twitter.com/SaanichPDK9/status/1066812020115365888
Police are recommending counts of break and enter, arson, mischief, and theft.
“Due to the ongoing nature of the investigation further details will not be released at this time,” said Constable Matt Cawsey in a news release.
“It is hoped more details will be available for release on Tuesday, November 27.”
As the investigation continues, PISE members are being offered the use of UVic’s CARSA gym on Monday and Tuesday.
The suspect remains in police custody.
Thanks to @uvic PISE paid members can use their facilities at #CARSA on Monday, Nov. 26 and Tuesday, Nov. 27. Paid #members will need to present their current membership card and sign a waiver. #yyj
— PISE (@PISEworld) November 26, 2018