Charges laid in downtown Lethbridge fire that damaged businesses

Just after 4 a.m. Sunday, firefighters responded to a fire at the Wooden Shoe Bakery and Andrew Hilton Wine Merchants.

Lethbridge police have laid charges in connection with a downtown fire that caused significant damage to two businesses.

An officer on patrol noticed the smell of smoke in the 200 block of Third Avenue South at 4 a.m. on Sunday and found a fire at the back of Wooden Shoe European Food Store and Andrew Hilton Wine and Spirits.

Police evacuated a nearby youth shelter as a precaution, worried that windy conditions could cause the flames to spread to the building.

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Firefighters extinguished the blaze.

Police say no injuries were reported.

Investigators determined the fire started within an encampment that had been located at the rear of the businesses.

A 51-year-old man is now charged with two counts of arson.

Initial damages are estimated at $700,000.