Suspect arrested in historic Orillia Ont. fire

OPP and firefighters on scene at a building fire in downtown Orillia. Tue., Jan. 21, 2025

Police have made an arrest in the devastating fire that tore through part of Orillia’s historic downtown core.

In bail court appearing by video at the Orillia OPP detachment, police say a man is facing charges with arson and endangering life.

Police say they recovered video from multiple businesses in the area that helped investigators determine the identity of the suspect.

He was arrested overnight. It is expected he will be released from custody Thursday with conditions that include not possessing a lighter.

The century-old building near the corner of Peter and Mississaga streets went up in flames at about 7:30 a.m. Tuesday.

Orillia Fire Chief Chris Ferry describing intense flames and black smoke consuming the entire building.

According to the City of Orillia, the building near 7 Peter Street South was destroyed, resulting in the total loss of several small businesses. While no residents lived in the affected building, nearby residents and businesses have been displaced.

On Wednesday, police told CTV News they believed a small fire that was started caused the entire building to go up in flames. The building has been deemed a total loss with damage estimated at $4-million.

This is a developing story. More details will be shared as they become available.

With files from CTV’s Mike Arsalides and Julianna Balsamo.