Saanich Police are investigating a string of suspicious fires which occurred overnight in Saanich, between April 11 and April 12.
The first fire was reported at approximately 9:45 pm in an alley near the 600 block of Dupplin Road. Pallets stored outdoors and a dumpster in the alley were quickly extinguished by the Saanich Fire Department.
Approximately an hour later, just before 11:00 pm, the ABC Family Restaurant, attached to the Accent Inn located in the 3200 block on Maple Street, was destroyed by fire. No injuries were reported and all occupants of the Accent Inn were evacuated without incident.
Shortly after 2:00 am, a third fire was reported in the 100 block of Burnside Road East. This fire resulted in a detached shed and its contents being completely destroyed.
While police and fire crews were on scene and containing the area, police observed a fourth fire at a newly constructed townhouse complex in the 3300 block of Whittier Avenue. Thankfully, the damage to the complex was contained to one suite.
Members of the Victoria Police Department were assisting in the area and located a person of interest. The 25 year old male was observed by police in an area not far near the fire scenes. Upon speaking with the male. officers immediately noted a strong odour of acrid smoke coming from the individual. Other indicators were observed on the male and his clothing that lead police to believe that the he may have recently been in close proximity to a fire. The person of interest was detained and remains in police custody as the investigation continues.
At approximately 8:30 am, a fifth fire was reported, this time to a shed on a property in the 3200 block of Eldon Place. Saanich Fire Department were able to extinguish the fire quickly. It would appear, based on the initial observations by the investigators at the scene, that this fire would have started just prior to the incident being reported.
Following this latest report, the Saanich Police were asking area residents to check their properties for any signs of damage or suspicious activity that may have occurred at some point overnight.
Police request that any outbuildings such as sheds, detached garages, and carports be examined.
A total of five incidents have been reported so far. Anyone residing within the area of the following locations are asked to check their property as soon as possible, and to report any suspicious findings to the Saanich Police.
600 block Dupplin Ave
3200 block Maple Street
100 block Burnside Road East
3300 block Whittier Ave
3200 block Eldon Place
Based on the report of the fire later in the morning (8:30), and on Forensic evidence from the scenes, investigators believe that there is a strong possibility that a second person of interest is still outstanding.
Investigation into these suspicious fires continues. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Saanich Police Tip Line at 250-475- 4356.
Sgt. Steve Eassie #158