Residents hold arson suspect until police arrive

A 24-year-old man is expected to face arson charges after a fire at an unoccupied house in Kelowna overnight.

Residents in the 800 block of Galbraith Place conducted a citizen’s arrest, holding a man at the scene until police arrived.

“When officers arrived, the male was taken into police custody and will remain in custody until he can appear before the court,” said Cpl. Meghan Foster.

Police are investigating if the suspect may be linked to other fires in that area of Rutland.

“While there have been other fires reported in this area, it is too early to know if the incidents are linked and the same firebug is responsible. Investigators will be looking for linkages between each incident as part of their investigation. The quick actions of public assisted the police in the apprehension of the suspect and fortunately no one was hurt during the process,” said Foster.

The first fire crews to arrive at the scene around midnight reported seeing flames on the outside wall of a two story, double garage, carriage house.

“Crews were able to quickly knock down the fire and prevent any extension to the interior of the structure. The main residence and the carriage house were unoccupied at the time,” said Platoon Captain John Kelly.

Anyone with any information can contact the Kelowna RCMP at 250-762-3300, Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477, or leave a tip online at www.crimestoppers.net.