Toronto authorities have released surveillance footage from a residence in Scarborough belonging to a local Member of Parliament, following a suspected arson incident during the early hours of Thursday. The video captures a suspect setting fire to vehicles parked outside the home.
The incident took place at a residence on Bellamy Road North and Lawrence Avenue East, with emergency services responding to a fire call around 1:20 a.m. The perpetrator allegedly poured an accelerant on two vehicles, causing them to ignite, while a third vehicle also sustained damage. Fortunately, no injuries were reported from the incident.
In the footage, a figure wearing black clothing and holding a red jerry can is seen pouring accelerant on the car hoods before setting them ablaze. After starting the fires, the suspect quickly retreats as flames engulf the vehicles. The individual then flees the scene, leaving the burning jerry can at the driveway.
Described as having a light complexion and a slim build, the suspect was last seen wearing a black face-covering, hooded sweater, gloves, and running shoes. The suspect was seen driving a black Hyundai sedan.
In a statement from Salma Zahid’s office, the Member of Parliament for Scarborough Centre—Don Valley East, it was confirmed that her car and another vehicle were targeted in the arson attack. Zahid’s family, including her son who noticed the fire and alerted authorities, remained unharmed.
Expressing concern over the incident, Zahid refrained from speculating on the motive and awaited the investigation results. Both Prime Minister Carney and Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow condemned the arson, labeling it as a “cowardly act of violence and intimidation.”
