A man who jumped into action to stop a suspect who was pouring gasoline on cars along Edmonton’s Whyte Avenue has been identified as “Bert” from Lloydminster.
In April, footage showed a man dumping gasoline on vehicles along the popular street.
The incident was shocking. It also, however, brought out the best in two people Edmontonians later described as heroes.
One of those individuals who, until now, was only known as “Hawaiian Shirt Guy,” was featured in a new photo series by photographer Jason Whiting.
According to Whiting, Bert and his wife were having dinner on Whyte Avenue when someone pointed out what was happening. Bert’s wife barely had time to look up from her meal before her husband jumped up and started running down the street.
He chased the suspect, then tackled and held him until police arrived.
READ MORE: 22-year-old facing several charges following Whyte Avenue arson spree
Whiting said Bert is very private and didn’t want any accolades or recognition. He said it took some convincing to get him to agree to the photo series.
“He is one of the nicest guys you will ever meet,” Whiting wrote. “Kind, quiet, gentle, loving, compassionate, and willing to step up when needed.”
Bert and his shirt also supported a Jason Blower Illustration shirt campaign to raise funds for mental illness through We All Believe in You.
The other person who stepped up to help was dubbed “2×4 Guy.” He was later identified as Jeff Halaby.