A youth has been charged with arson following a Tuesday fire at a residence near Barrhaven that resulted in the deaths of three dogs, police confirmed Wednesday.
Fire Details and Response
Emergency crews responded to a fire on Muirfield Gardens in the Cedarhill Estate neighbourhood shortly before 3:30 p.m. on Tuesday. Firefighters discovered smoke inside the home originating from a basement fire. All residents managed to escape, with one person suffering minor smoke inhalation. However, three dogs perished in the blaze.
It took nearly an hour for the fire to be declared under control.
Charges Laid Against Youth
The youth, who cannot be identified under the Youth Criminal Justice Act, appeared in court on Wednesday. They face multiple charges, including arson, possession of incendiary material, uttering threats to cause death or bodily harm, killing or injuring animals, and causing unnecessary suffering to an animal.
Investigation Ongoing
Police stated that the investigation is being handled by the Ottawa Fire Services investigator and Ontario's Office of the Fire Marshal. Authorities are urging anyone with information about the incident to contact the Ottawa Police Service Arson and Explosion Unit at 613-236-1222, ext. 2202, or via email at arson@ottawapolice.ca. Anonymous tips can be submitted to Crime Stoppers toll-free at 1-800-222-8477 or online at crimestoppers.ca.
