Woodstock man arrested following arson investigation

This multi-unit residence as the site of a pair of fires recently, the first one being investigated by the Woodstock Fire Department. The second fire has result in charges against a city man. (Woodstock Fire Department photo)

Lee Griffi, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

A Woodstock man has been arrested in connection with a suspicious fire at a multi-unit residence in the city.

Emergency services responded to a fire at a multi-unit dwelling on Wilson Street on Dec. 10 at 2:30 p.m. All occupants were evacuated safely.

The following day, emergency crews were again dispatched to the same residence at 9:15 a.m. following reports of smoke coming from the building. This second fire was deemed suspicious and the Woodstock Fire Department called in Woodstock Police.

As a result of an investigation, a 36-year-old male from Woodstock was arrested on Dec. 12 and has been charged with break and enter in a dwelling to commit an indictable offence and arson, disregard for human life. The accused was held for a bail hearing.

The first fire caused significant damage to the dwelling unit on the first floor, but firefighters quickly contained it to prevent further harm to adjacent units. The estimated cost of the destruction is approximately $150,000 and the cause is under investigation.