Man arrested after suspected arson at Nanaimo restaurant

Nanaimo RCMP say a fire that damaged a fast-food restaurant in the city’s downtown early Tuesday is believed to have been deliberately set.

Officers were called to Victoria Crescent shortly after 4 a.m. Police said CCTV footage helped identify a suspect, who was arrested at about 11 a.m.

The detachment said the fire had the potential to cause significant damage and put lives and neighbouring businesses at risk, but firefighters extinguished it quickly.

Investigators want to speak with an adult man who parked a red Tesla outside the restaurant when the fire began. Police say he left the area but called 911, and his identity is unknown. Anyone with information, including the driver, is asked to call Nanaimo RCMP at 250-754-2345.