Authorities in Montreal are currently looking into a suspicious fire that occurred at a vacant residential and commercial structure in the Villeray—Saint-Michel—Parc-Extension area of the city.
The Montreal police were alerted to the fire through multiple 911 calls at approximately 2 a.m. on Friday. The incident took place on Jean-Talon Street in close proximity to Pie-IX Boulevard.
Upon their arrival, law enforcement officers discovered Montreal firefighters already present, diligently working to contain the blaze. As a precautionary measure, several residents in the vicinity were evacuated.
Fortunately, the building only suffered minor damages and there were no reported injuries resulting from the incident.
While a suspect was reportedly sighted at the scene, they managed to flee before the authorities reached the location.
The investigation has now been handed over to the arson squad of the SPVM. To ensure a thorough examination of the area and the preservation of crucial evidence, a security perimeter has been established.
Authorities have already spoken to witnesses and are actively seeking any potential surveillance footage that may aid in their inquiries. As of now, no arrests have been made in connection with the case.
