Officers discharge anti-riot weapon after alleged arsonist causes multiple fires; SIU investigates

The province's special investigations unit have invoked their mandate after an anti-riot weapon was used during an arson investigation in Severn.

The Special Investigations Unit (SIU) has invoked their mandate to investigate a disturbance incident in Severn Township Friday night, where officers reportedly discharged less-lethal firearms on a suspected arsonist.

The Incident

According to the SIU, police received a report around 8:30 p.m. of a 60-year-old Clarington man threatening residents and setting fires to structures in the area of Peninsula Point Road.

The SIU says responding officers located the suspect in the backyard of a home and attempted to negotiate with them.

Then, while arresting him, the SIU confirmed that officers discharged a conducted energy weapon and an Anti-Riot Weapon Enfield (ARWEN).

The suspect was eventually arrested and taken to hospital, but did not sustain any serious injuries according to the SIU.

The Fires

According to Severn Township Fire and Emergency Services (SFES), a fire at a first structure was ‘fully involved’ and a second structure had a fire at the rear of the residence.

The SFES fire chief told CTV News that an aggressive attack by the first wave of firefighters controlled the second fire and that crews managed to get the first fire under control after several hours.

20 SFES firefighters were reportedly on scene and were assisted by Ramara Fire and Rescue Services.

No injuries were sustained to any occupants or firefighters, according to the SFES fire chief, and a damage estimate is to be determined.

As the fires have been deemed suspicious, the Office of the Ontario Fire Marshal was contacted.

The Charges & Investigation

Orillia OPP charged the suspect with a slew of offences. The charges included four counts of arson, assault, assault with a weapon, weapon possession for a dangerous purpose, explosive substance possession with intent, incendiary material possession, and uttering threats to cause death or harm. He is being held in custody pending a bail hearing.

Kristy Denette, a SIU spokesperson, confirmed to CTV News that the investigation is well underway.

“The focus of the SIU investigation is the officer’s discharge of the ARWEN at the man,” said Denette, in an email to CTV News. “Investigators are currently conducting interviews and gathering evidence, including body-worn camera footage,”

The SIU urges anyone with additional information or footage of the incident to come forward.