Police investigate suspected arson after vehicle torched in RDP

Montreal police (SPVM) are investigating after a vehicle was set on fire in the Riviere-des-Prairies—Pointe-aux-Trembles borough early Sunday morning.

Around 3:55 a.m., the SPVM was alerted by the Montreal fire department (SIM) about a vehicle fire on Thomas-Paine Street near Olivier-Le Jeune Street.

When officers arrived, they found the vehicle on the street with the fire already under control. Firefighters told police that a window appeared to have been smashed before the blaze and that the fire originated inside the passenger compartment.

According to initial reports, more than one suspect was seen approaching the vehicle before the flames broke out. They had fled the scene by the time police arrived.

The vehicle sustained significant damage and will be towed for forensic analysis.

No injuries were reported.

Given the potential criminal nature of the incident, the investigation has been taken over by the SPVM arson squad.

A perimeter has been set up, and investigators are searching for surveillance footage and speaking with potential witnesses.

The investigation is ongoing.