Early Tuesday morning, the Linda Vista Motel on King George Boulevard near 64 Avenue in Surrey faced significant damage from a fire believed to be an act of arson, according to the Surrey Police Service (SPS).
Upon receiving a call just past 4:45 a.m., authorities found Surrey Fire Services (SFS) already at the scene fighting the flames that originated in the lobby. The SPS stated that the fire was intentionally started by a man who entered the lobby, threatened staff, and set the area ablaze.
The suspect, described as a 20-something male standing around 6 feet tall with a large build and dressed in dark clothing, had fled before emergency response teams arrived. It is suspected that he may have left the area in a vehicle, although specific details about the vehicle remain unknown.
Fortunately, there were no reported injuries, and it is believed that none of the motel’s guests were displaced as a result of the fire incident.
The SPS Major Crime Unit and arson investigator are collaborating with SFS to investigate the incident further, although a motive for the arson has not been established at this time.
Authorities urge anyone with information to contact the SPS non-emergency line at 604-599-0502, referring to file 26-110091 (SP) if necessary.
