Authorities say a house fire Monday evening near downtown Midland was deliberately set.
Southern Georgian Bay OPP Const. Aaron Coulter said investigators from the province's Office of the Fire Marshal (OFM), who attended the scene, have determined the fire that destroyed the Elizabeth Street home was arson.
Coulter said the finding was made in part by the discovery of a five-gallon fuel can found in the charred ruins of the home.
“The can was located in the area of the fire and it doesn’t belong to anyone who lived at the home,” said Coulter, who didn’t say whether the police have any potential leads or suspects.
While he noted the investigation is continuing, Coulter said police are asking for the public’s help in finding out who may have owned the distinctive metal can.
“It would be used to carry accelerants. It’s very distinctive," he said.
Police and Midland firefighters initially responded to the scene at 8:44 p.m., Dec. 28, and observed the home engulfed in flames upon arrival.
Nobody was injured in the blaze.
Coulter said he didn't know whether the homeowner has insurance.
No one from the fire department was available for comment.
Anyone with information about the crime or if the can appears to be familiar is asked to contact the OPP at (888) 310-1122. If you wish to remain anonymous please contact CrimeStoppers at or call (800) 222-8477 (TIPS).
