A 25-year-old man is facing multiple arson charges following a string of intentionally set fires that broke out in central Edmonton on the evening of Aug. 19.
Between 9 and 10 p.m., flames were deliberately ignited at an apartment building near 83 Street and 117 Avenue, as well as at two residences in the vicinity of 81 Street and 115 Avenue.
Although no one was hurt, police noted the incidents created serious risks to neighbouring properties and caused damage to fencing and a tree.
Security camera footage allowed investigators to quickly identify a suspect. Officers arrested the man later that same night near Fort Road and 116 Avenue.
The following day, Aug. 20, he was formally charged with one count of arson with disregard for human life and four counts of arson causing property damage.
Acting Insp. Eric Stewart emphasized the broader dangers of intentional fires:
“When a fire is intentionally set, the potential for harm can extend well beyond the property involved.”
As of May 2026, the Edmonton Police Service had investigated 146 suspicious fires.
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