Suspected arsonist charged in connection to Kingsland fires

A charred garbage bin in Kingsland following a suspected act of arson

Calgary police have arrested and charged a 47-year-old in connection to three fires in alleyways in the southwest neighbourhood of Kingsland.

Murray Zorn, who lived near the locations of the garbage bin fires, faces charges in connection to three suspected cases of arson. Police continue to investigate Zorn’s possible involvement in suspicious early morning fires over the past three months.

According to members of the community, fires in Kingsland have been a common occurrence in the vicinity of the Centre 70 building and Kingsmere Cres. S.W. since 2012 and news of an arrest has brought a sense of relief.

Brian Letty, a cab driver who lives in the neighbourhood, feared a firebug could cost him his source of income.

“I’m not sure if my car is going to get lit on fire in the middle of the night,” said Letty.

No injuries have been reported in the Kingsland fires, but, according to police, the deliberately set fires could have easily spread, jeopardizing neighbouring homes, vehicles and residents.

“It’s always a concern to us that even though the fires in this case didn't risk other property, the concern is that could change at any time,” said Det. Torre Killam of the Arson Unit.

Police continue to question the perpetrator’s intentions in setting the Kingsland fires.

“Often the motivation for the person lighting the fire doesn't make a lot of sense to the rest of the world,” said Det. Killam. “While it might make sense to the person lighting the fire, we don't understand it ourselves.”

Zorn is scheduled to appear in court next week. The accused has been released from police custody but a court order prohibits the 47-year-old from visiting his former neighbourhood or possessing matches or lighters.

With files from CTV's Bridget Brown