Suspect photos released in multi-million dollar Victoria restaurant arson

Police in Victoria, B.C., have released photos of a suspect in an arson that gutted a restaurant last summer.

Flames broke out at the Rickey’s Restaurant in the 2900 block of Douglas Street just after 3 a.m. on June 16.

Victoria police said the fire caused between $1.5 million and $2 million in damage.

Investigators released images Wednesday of a man who was captured on video throwing a lit object through the restaurant’s windows.

2:04 String of suspicious fires under investigation

The restaurant fire was one of several suspicious fires reported within a short period in July, all within a five-block radius.

One fire destroyed a car, while another destroyed a heritage home and a third broke out at a cleaning supply store. Police have not commented on whether they believe the suspect whose image was released Wednesday was connected to any other incidents.

The suspect is described as having a medium build and short hair. He was wearing all black clothing, including a black hat, gloves and a square black backpack with writing on it.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Victoria police at 250-995-7654, or Crime Stoppers if they wish to remain anonymous.