A 32-year old male will appear in court today to answer to charges related to fires deliberately set at two downtown businesses.

On Tuesday, April 21, 2020, shortly before 7:00 p.m., Hamilton Police received reports of a working fire at 161 James Street North, La-Bichette. Police responded with emergency service partners and the fire was extinguished after it had spread to a second business, Grey Harbour Tattoo Parlour, located at the address. Moments later, police received additional information about another fire at 224 James Street North, Born and Raised Restaurant. Officers quickly responded and were able to extinguish the fire themselves.

Through continued investigation, police determined the three fires were related. A suspect was identified and located in the area of Bay Street North and York Boulevard. He was arrested without incident shortly before midnight and taken into police custody.

A 32-year-old male of no fixed addressed is scheduled to have his matter brought before the criminal courts today.

The damage caused to the businesses is believed to be valued at $100,000.00.

There were no reported injuries related to the incidents.

The Ontario Fire Marshall was contacted and will be attending.

Hamilton Police will continue to investigate to determine if there are connections to yesterday's incidents and recent fire investigations throughout the city.

CHARGED

32-year-old male of no fixed address

CHARGES

Arson - disregard life X 3

Arson – damage property X 3

Fail to comply probation X3

If you have any information that you believe could assist Police with the investigation into this crime you are asked to contact Detective George Gallant by calling 905-540-5085 or Detective Sergeant Andrea Torrie at 905-546-2991.

To provide information anonymously call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or submit your anonymous tips online at http://www.crimestoppershamilton.com