Updated January 30, 2025 @ 4:53pm
A 35-year- old man charged with arson in connection with a fire in downtown Orillia that destroyed a century-building and several businesses was arrested, according to Ontario Provincial Police (OPP), after he was allegedly found to be in possession of a lighter.
Orillia OPP said in a news release that they were called late Tuesday afternoon about an unwanted person at an address on Queen Street East. Once officers arrived, the man was no longer at the location. Shortly after, police found him and discovered that he was allegedly in possession of a lighter, in violation of an order not to be in possession of an accelerant to start a fire.
He was charged with two counts of failing to comply with a release order and was held in custody, pending a bail hearing.
The fire happened at 7 Peter Street at Mississaga Street on Jan. 21.
A suspect was arrested the following day.
Damage as a result of the blaze was $4 million.
Several businesses were gutted including Dr. Comics, Kelly's Clothing and Three Birds Salon.
"Once the fire extended through the attic, it caused a roof collapse, requiring crews to battle the flames from the exterior. Additional challenges included cold weather, which created icy conditions, and high winds, necessitating more frequent rotation of crews," according to the City of Orillia.
In battling the fire, Orillia crews were supported by mutual aid from Ramara, Severn, Oro-Medonte, and Rama Fire Services.
