A 24 year Saanich man was arrested for arson following a house fire Wednesday.
Det/Sgt Damian Kowalewich says fire crews were called to a home in the 200 block of Sims Avenue, and while they were able to extinguish it, but damage is extensive:
"At this point I'd call the damage significant. The hous is uninhabitable and will require extensive remediation. The fire was contained primarily to the inside upper level."
Investigation determined the cause was suspicious, and with the help of area residents, police were able to locate and arrest a suspect:
" Initial witnesses had indicated there had been a male that had left the scene and was acting in a suspicious manner. We were able to follow that up, and we determined a 24 year old Saanich male who we believe was responsible for setting this house on fire."
Kowalewich says it was later learned the man is associated to the residence. The man was held in custody.