Alleged arson outside Osoyoos RCMP detachment snuffed thanks to passerby

Members of the Osoyoos RCMP are lauding the efforts of a man who helped extinguish a fire at the Osoyoos RCMP detachment.

On Thursday night at around 9:30 p.m., two officers at work smelled what they believed was smoke, according to an RCMP press release.

The officers went outside and found that the main entrance and the front portion of the building were up in flames.

1:13 CCTV footage of alleged arson fire at Osoyoos RCMP detachment

WATCH ABOVE: Security camera footage taken at the front entrance of the Osoyoos RCMP building where a person appears to ignite a fire.

“Luckily, a very astute passerby saw the fire and was already using water from his RV in an attempt to put it out,” Osoyoos RCMP said.

Get daily National news

Get daily Canada news delivered to your inbox so you'll never miss the day's top stories.

Sign up for daily National newsletter Get Started

By providing your email address, you have read and agree to Global News' Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy.

The Osoyoos Fire Department also responded to the scene, confirming the fire was out.

RCMP said the building sustained minimal damage in the ordeal.

“This situation could have been very dangerous for the members inside the detachment,” said Cpl. Dave Smith of the Osoyoos RCMP.

“Luckily, a good samaritan was nearby and acted very quickly to put out the fire.”

While standing outside, officers saw a man return to the fire with flammable items, police say. He was recognized from previous run-ins with police.

Joseph McArthur-Pereira, 28, has been charged with arson endangering life and mischief causing danger to life.

McArthur-Pereira appeared in a Penticton court on July 26 and, according to police, was held in custody pending a psychiatric evaluation.

He is scheduled to appear in court on August 21.