Brandon Walmart fire being investigated as arson: police

A fire at a Brandon Walmart is being investigated as arson. (Jorge Tanner/Supplied)

Brandon authorities say a Friday morning blaze at a popular chain was arson and have made arrests.

At around 12:30 a.m. Friday, fire crews were called to a blaze at Walmart in Brandon’s Coral Centre.

Brandon police said investigators learned Adirondack chairs at the front entrance were set on fire, with those flames spreading to the building.

Fire crews extinguished the fire but the building suffered water and smoke damage.

Brandon Fire and Emergency Services (BFES) said the cause of the fire appears to be arson.

BFES, the service’s fire commissioner’s office, and Brandon Police Service are investigating.

Walmart, and the nail salon inside, are both temporarily closed until further notice.

Brandon police announced Saturday they had arrested three youths in relation to the fire. Two of the three have since been charged with arson.