Attempted murder charge laid in Sarnia fire

A new Sarnia police cruiser is shown in this photo released by police on Thursday, Feb. 21, 2013.

Charges have been laid following an early morning fire in Sarnia's south end that sent a 24-year-old to hospital.

Police say a 38-year-old Peter Kupec of Sarnia has been charged with attempted murder and arson with disregard for human life in the incident.

Sarnia fire crews, police and Lamtbon EMS were called to the 100 block of Alfred Street around 5 a.m. Tuesday for a house fire.

A 24-year-old Sarnia man was transported to Bluewater Health by ambulance for treatment and transferred to London.

Officials say the accused and the victim had been involved in an altercation prior to the fire. Other people in the house at the time were not injured.

The accused also faces charges of aggravated assault and flight from police. Additional charges are expected.