Suspect allegedly sets RV on fire to escape police, gets arrested

Windsor police cruiser at headquarters in Windsor, Ont., on Wednesday, March 20, 2024. (Melanie Kentner/CTV News Windsor)

Windsor police say they have arrested a wanted suspect who deliberately set fire to a recreational vehicle, in an attempt to get away from officers.

Shortly after 11:30 p.m. Sunday night, members of the Problem-Oriented Policing Unit (POP) attended the 700 block of Bridge Avenue to arrest a suspect wanted on multiple outstanding warrants.

When the suspect refused to exit a parked RV, officers obtained a warrant and attempted to legally enter the trailer.

Police say the suspect then lit a fire, which quickly engulfed the inside of the RV and spread to the hydro lines above the trailer. As officers dealt with the fire, police say the suspect escaped through a small opening in the floor of the trailer and fled the scene.

Officers conducted an extensive search and located the suspect hiding within a residence in the 700 block of Bridge Avenue.

The 41-year-old man was arrested on the strength of his outstanding warrants for charges of break and enter, theft of a motor vehicle, and driving while prohibited (x 3). He is further charged with arson with a disregard for human life and arson causing property damage.

Anyone with information is asked to call the Target Base Unit at 519-255-6700, ext. 4350. They can also contact Windsor & Essex County Crime Stoppers anonymously at 519-258-8477 (TIPS) or online at www.catchcrooks.com.