‘Person of interest’ sought after Nanaimo carport blaze

Nanaimo RCMP provided this photo of crews frighting a fire that started in a carport on March 30, 2025.

Police are investigating a fire that destroyed multiple vehicles and forced the evacuation of an apartment building Sunday.

The blaze broke out around 5:30 a.m. in the carport of a building near the intersection of Prideaux Street and Comox Avenue, according to the Nanaimo RCMP.

“The fire destroyed three to four parked vehicles and caused extensive smoke damage to the building, forcing the evacuation of its occupants. No injuries were reported,” a news release from Mounties said.

“Investigators are following up on information that a young adult man was seen in the area when the fire started and this same person was seen running away shortly after the fire broke out.”

Mounties are referring to the man as a “person of interest” and not as a suspect at this time.

The man is described as white, with a thin-to-average build and “puffy hair.” Police say he was wearing a green jacket with patches on the sleeves at the time.

Anyone with information is urged to call 250-754-2345.