Calgary police now say a Saturday morning fire in the northwest may have been the work of an arsonist.
A neighbour reported smoke and flames coming from a gara
ge in the 1200 block of Varsity Estates Road N.W. just before 5:00 a.m.
When crews arrived, they found a two-story home fully engulfed in smoke and flames and rushed to evacuate it.
Five residents were helped out, along with two others from a neighbouring home. Nobody was hurt.
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Crews immediately began an aggressive attack on the fire and managed to keep it from spreading to other houses.
The house has significant damage and has been deemed uninhabitable.
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Arson investigators believe the same person may be involved in another fire which was reported around 3:00 a.m. on May 18.
The Calgary Fire Department was called to a house fire in the 1100 block of Varsity Estates Drive N.W.
Police said subsequent collection of CCTV showed a man setting fire to a back shed before fleeing. The fire spread to the garage and house. It is believed the man had been car prowling in the area prior to setting the fire.
The suspect is described as being between 20 and 30 years old and clean shaven. He is usually wearing a hat and carrying a black backpack.
Police said at this time, there is no information to indicate these are targeted incidents and the motive remains unknown.
They recommend people keep their outdoor lights on, secure garages and sheds, and call 911 if you spot the suspect.
Anyone with information about this investigation is asked to contact police by calling 403-266-1234. Tips can also be submitted anonymously to Crime Stoppers.
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