Regina Fire and Protective Services (RFPS) investigators have determined the cause of the fire at CAA Car Care Centre/Regina Battery Depot early Tuesday morning.
“Investigators have determined that the fire occurred on the north side of the building and was deliberately set,” the release read.
“RFPS continues to work closely with Regina Police Service (RPS) on this incident. As it is an open RPS investigation, Regina Fire & Protective Services will not comment further.”
Regina fire crews battled what they described as a large structure fire at the building located at the intersection of Winnipeg Street and Dewdney Avenue.
The Regina Fire Deputy Chief said they received the call to the CAA Battery Depot building at 2:25 a.m.
Fire crews quickly used elevated water streams as they found both the outside and inside ablaze.
“The fire escalated rapidly. Before long, the flames coming through the roof,” said Gord Hewitt. “There is a significant amount of water damage … and quite extensive.”
Part of the building was demolished for safety reasons and the CAA Battery Depot has been closed until further notice.
Regina Fire crews took almost three hours to get the fire under control. Motorists were advised by the Regina Police Service to avoid the area and find alternate routes.