Police in Nanaimo are asking for the public’s help to identify a person suspected of lighting a bag of garbage on fire in an alleyway.
A suspect was allegedly seen starting a fire in an alleyway behind 100 Nicol St. at about 9:30 a.m. Saturday, July 27. A nearby surveillance camera showed that the individual walked into the alley, set a bag of garbage on fire next to a fence and walked away, according to an RCMP press release.
Residents in the area saw the smoke and, using a garden hose, managed to extinguish the fire before it could spread.
Nanaimo Fire Rescue responded and ensured the fire was completely out before leaving.
The suspect "appears somewhat dishevelled" and is of medium height, slim build, and was wearing a brown long sleeve shirt and dark pants, noted the release.
“If not for the quick action of neighbours, this fire could have easily spread and caused significant damage,” said reserve Const. Gary O’Brien, Nanaimo RCMP spokesperson, in the release.
Anyone who has information about this incident is asked to contact the Nanaimo RCMP non-emergency line at 250-754-2345 and reference file No. 2024-24310.
