Suspect arrested in arson that destroyed beloved Vancouver diner
Posted October 23, 2020 2:33 pm.
Last Updated October 23, 2020 2:37 pm.
VANCOUVER (NEWS 1130) — A suspect was arrested Thursday after a beloved diner and other businesses on Main Street were destroyed by arson, according to the Vancouver Police Department.
What was a three-alarm fire started around 10 a.m. near E. Broadway and closed Main in all directions.
At the centre of the fire was Frenchies Montreal Smoked Meat, which opened at that location in 1967 and was known for its poutine, as well as a community hub.
#VPDNews: Vancouver Police have made an arrest and are continuing the investigation into a large structural fire on Main Street near Broadway Avenue yesterday. https://t.co/rs9VQrRlGK pic.twitter.com/PhNc3t2J0t
— Vancouver Police (@VancouverPD) October 23, 2020
The fire engulfed five other businesses in the block and resulted in severe structural damage to multiple buildings.
“We know this fire was an arson. Thankfully, no one was injured,” Const. Tania Visintin says in a release.
“An act like this is extremely dangerous and reckless. Investigators are working hard to hold the person or people responsible for this arson accountable.”
READ ALSO: Beloved Frenchies diner destroyed in three-alarm fire in Vancouver
Officers arrested a suspect a short distance away from the fire.
The suspect was released later in the day, pending further investigation, according to police.
Anyone with information is asked to call 9-1-1.
–with files from Martin MacMahon
