Possible arsonist in Shanty Bay area

OPP arrests man they believe started several fires in Oro-Medonte Twp.

Reports of an active arsonist with a knife hit the emergency services scanner Monday.

Emergency personnel received information concerning someone setting multiple garbage bags and trees on fire in Oro-Medonte.

Emergency Services and Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) were called to the Shanty Bay and Ridge Road area around 8:15 p.m.

OPP say a man was seen setting multiple fires near residential properties, as well as brandishing a knife and throwing rocks at a passing vehicle.

• Download the CTV News app to get local alerts on your device
• Get the latest local updates sent to your email inbox

Peter Leon, Barrie’s Corporate Communications Coordinator, confirmed Barrie Police Services had been called in to assist.

“There is a mischief investigation ongoing in Oro-Medonte Township near to Shanty Bay which is the jurisdiction of the Orillia OPP. I understand we may be providing some assistance to this ongoing matter,” Leon said.

OPP arrested the man and are looking to speak with anyone who witnessed the events or had contact with the suspect.

Call Orillia OPP at 1-888-310-1122 or contact Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS).