North Van, Vancouver arsons result in arrest by Vancouver Police

After a series of arsons in North Vancouver and Vancouver, a suspect was arrested in Burnaby by Vancouver Police this morning.

"This was a joint collaboration with Vancouver Police and our partners at the North Vancouver RCMP," says Constable Tania Visintin. "Officers were able to swiftly arrest the alleged suspect and we're thankful that no one was physically harmed."

Just before 6:45 a.m., North Vancouver RCMP were notified of a structure fire at the Lynn Valley Lodge near Lynn Valley Road and Harold Road. The District of North Vancouver Fire Rescue Services attended the scene and contained the blaze.

A few minutes later, just before 7 a.m., North Vancouver RCMP were notified of a second structure fire at Duke of Connaught Lodge No. 64 (North Vancouver Masonic Centre) near Lonsdale Avenue and West 12th Street. The building was fully engulfed while the City of North Vancouver Fire Rescue Services fought the fire.

A third fire was reported to first responders at the Masonic Temple near Rupert Street and East 29th Avenue in Vancouver just before 7:30 a.m.

Investigative efforts led Vancouver Police to Burnaby, where a 42-year-old man was arrested near North Fraser Way and Marine Way in Burnaby. Arson charges will be recommended to Crown counsel.

"This investigation unfolded very quickly," said Sgt. Peter DeVries of the North Vancouver RCMP. "We have a very good working relationship with our partners at Vancouver Police. By sharing information and coordinating our efforts we were able to move swiftly as new information became available."