Man faces arson charges in connection with recent Calgary alleyway fires

Police have in their custody a man they believe is responsible for a pair of recent fires in Calgary alleyways. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Jeff McIntosh

Police have in their custody a man they believe is responsible for a pair of recent fires in Calgary alleyways.

The first fire occurred around 1:30 a.m. on Nov. 4 behind Bridgette Bar in the 700 block of 10th Avenue S.W.

According to police, the building was “significantly damaged” by the fire.

The fire department said at the time crews arrived to find smoke and flames coming from the deck at the rear of the building.

Crews were able to quickly put out the fire.

No one was inside and no one was injured.

Owner Jim Choi said at the time the men’s bathroom and private dining room were very damaged, while the main dining room and kitchen were mostly spared.

The fire department said at the time the damage is estimated to be between $200,000 and $300,000.

Police say the second fire occurred around 5 a.m. on Dec. 17.

No address was provided, but they say it’s believed the fire was started at the alleyway entrance.

They also say the fire damaged two neighbouring businesses.

A 34-year-old Calgary man was arrested on Dec. 20 and charged with:

• arson (damage to property) (x2); and
• breaching a probation order (x2).

The suspect remains in custody at this time.

Police say they’ve “determined the two incidents were connected and the fires were intentionally set.”

However, police also say “a motive remains unknown.”

Any member of the public who can assist with the investigation is asked to call police at 403-266-1234 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.

With files by Michael Franklin