Vancouver Street Church fire believed to be arson: VPD
Posted September 8, 2022 10:19 am.
Last Updated September 8, 2022 10:21 am.
Vancouver police believe the fire that destroyed the Street Church on the Downtown Eastside this past July was a case of arson.
Security footage from the area shared by the VPD Thursday shows three suspects police believe deliberately set the building on fire.
The flames destroyed not only the Street Church but also a neighbouring convenience story.
“The building was completely gutted, and while nobody was injured in the fire, smoke and flames came dangerously close to the Maple Hotel, which houses dozens of vulnerable Downtown Eastside residents,” said Cst. Tania Visintin.
Vancouver police are looking for three people in connection with a fire that destroyed a street church on the Downtown Eastside in July. (Courtesy VPD)
The Maple Hotel was evacuated and saved from serious damage, the VPD notes.
Crews were called to the area of East Hastings and Main Street on July 6 around 9 p.m. One firefighter was hurt while tackling the fire, though no other injuries were reported.
The probe into the cause of the incident led investigators to surveillance footage that appears to show the fire was set in an alcove behind the Street Church.
“We believe each suspect was present when the fire was set, had knowledge of the arson, and had time to either put out the fire or call for help,” Visintin added. “Their failure to do so put dozens of people in danger, and we’re asking anyone who recognizes them to come forward.”
Anyone with information about the fire or the suspects is asked to contact the VPD at 604.717.2541 or Crime Stoppers at 1.800.222.4477.
