Saanich police have arrested a 57-year-old man in relation to April’s fire at the Shelbourne Street Home Depot and last month’s structure fire in the 4000 block of Cedar Hill Road.
“We’re pretty happy that an arrest has been made and luckily that no one was injured during the fires,” said A/Sgt. Jereme Leslie.
The arrest follows many hours of interviews with witnesses, reviews of surveillance footage and lengthy investigations at both crime scenes. The suspect was arrested Wednesday and police are recommending two charges of arson to endanger life.
Leslie said the suspect is known to police, but he didn’t think the man in custody has any previous arson-related charges. He also said he’s unsure if the man is considered a suspect in the Mayfair Toys “R” Us fire from April.
“We know who he is, he’s had a few interactions with police before,” said Leslie. “However, I’m uncertain of what the Victoria investigation is at this point and whether or not they would be looking at this individual.
“Our investigators are in constant communication with one another, and they do meet on a regular basis and discuss files.”
The man is scheduled to appear in court today (Thursday).
jacob.zinn@saanichnews.com