Press conference reveals arrest of two suspects in recent arson case

By: Victoria Parent

On Oct. 16, Sgt. Matthew D’Asti and Chief Fire Prevention Officer John Lee announced the arrest of two suspects in a recent arson case. The two suspects were a 21-year-old male and a 39-year-old male.

The older of the two faces charges of arson causing damage to property, criminal negligence, failing to provide assistance in relation to the life or safety of another person, as well as being an accessory to the crime. The younger is facing a charge of arson causing property damage.

“This is an ongoing criminal investigation,” said D’Asti.

On Oct. 12 Windsor Fire and Rescue Services received an alarm at about 4:15 a.m. for a working fire at 1129 Wyandotte St. East. At approximately the same time a citizen placed a 911 call to report the incident to Windsor Police Services.

“Upon arrival, the crews found the building to be fully involved at the location of business operating as Pizza Brothers,” said Lee.

The fire was said to be caused by an explosion in the building. The blaze brought out 26 firemen and five trucks which is about half of the city’s reserve. Additional buildings in the plaza also sustained damage and the total cost for damage was estimated at $600,000.

The youngest offender is currently at a hospital in Hamilton being treated for burns covering 60 per cent of his body. The eldest was released on promise to appear in court, which is scheduled for early December.

The 21-year-old entered the business and his actions allegedly caused an explosion resulting in him being critically injured. The 39-year-old then removed the injured male from the scene and brought him to an undisclosed location in Windsor and later to a secondary location in Essex. Eventually an ambulance was called and the 21 year old was first sent to Windsor Regional Hospital Ouellette Campus, then to Hamilton General Hospital’s burn unit.  

On Oct. 15 at approximately 8:45 a.m., members of the Windsor Police Service placed the 39-year-old suspect under arrest without incident in the area of Howard Ave. and Cabana Rd.

“Police are continuing with the investigation and are still asking anybody within our community to call police with information, or Crime Stoppers if they chose to do so,” said D’Asti.