THUNDER BAY - An investigation has determined arson is the cause of three suspicious backyard fires that broke out in a span of less than two hours earlier this week.
The investigation included Thunder Bay Fire Rescue, the Office of the Fire Marshal, and staff from Thunder Bay Police.
On Wednesday, Thunder Bay Fire Rescue crews were called to the first blaze on the 300 block of Brodie Street South at 1:12 a.m., where a shed at the rear of the yard was fully engulfed in flames. The fire spread through the fence to the adjoining yard, where a snow machine was damaged. Power lines were also damaged.
The second fire was called in at 2:29 a.m. on the 200 block of Archibald Street South, where a playhouse structure at the back of the property was consumed by flames. The fire caused heat damage to the siding of the corresponding home.
Those firefighters then observed a third incident on the 400 block of Archibald Street South at 3:04 a.m., who had to help evacuate the homeowner after the attached garage was on fire.
Police advised area residents to ensure all outbuildings are locked, gates are secured, and yards are well lit.
