NEW GLASGOW, N.S. —
Police have arrested a 21-year-old man they believe intentionally set a fire that displaced 12 people in New Glasgow.
The fire, which began around 12:30 a.m. on April 30, caused extensive damage to two neighbouring apartment buildings on Forbes and MacKay streets near downtown New Glasgow.
All residents of the buildings escaped without injury, but several pets died in the fire.
New Glasgow Regional Police have charged the 21-year-old with arson, assault, uttering threats, failing to comply with an undertaking, possession of a controlled substance and injuring or endangering animals.
Canadian Red Cross volunteers arranged emergency lodging for 10 people including a couple, a father and son and six single tenants. New Glasgow taxi company DC Cabs offered free transportation for tenants who needed it. Red Cross will help with purchases of food, clothing and other basics. Two other tenants went with family or friends but will be offered other Red Cross support if needed.
To comply with public health directives in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Red Cross volunteers speak with displaced tenants by phone or from a two-metre distance where possible or wear personal protective equipment if required. Emergency hotel accommodation is arranged remotely. The cost of food, clothing and other urgent purchases are covered using temporary credit cards or electronic fund transfers activated remotely through a 24-hour Red Cross national support centre.
Police are asking anyone with information on this incident to contact the New Glasgow Regional Police at 902-752-1941 or Nova Scotia Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or by a Secure Web Tips at www.crimesstoppers.ns.ca. Calls to Crime Stoppers are not taped or traced and if police make an arrest and lay charges based on a tip, callers qualify for a cash award.
