Charges are pending against a 21-year-old Shelburne man after he intentionally set a fire inside a seniors’ home last evening.
The fire was reported initially as a dispute, where the 21-year-old was behaving erratically, and continued to escalate to the point where he poured gasoline in the apartment he was visiting, and in the hallway of the building. He then lit it on fire, and was severely burned as a result.
The building, which is home to 29 residents, caught fire, however with the assistance of police and several fire departments, everyone escaped safely. RCMP members administered first aid to some residents who required it, and also to the suspect, until paramedics arrived.
The suspect was transported to hospital for treatment of life threatening injuries. He is facing charges of Arson Causing Danger to Life. The 29 residents are being assisted by families, the Red Cross, and various community groups.
The investigation is ongoing.
Source: Release