Serial arsonist in Hamilton sets fires outside place of worship

On successive nights last week, a suspected serial arsonist set fires at a place of worship in the St. Clair neighbourhood of Hamilton.

The fires were set at 57 Delaware Ave., which is listed as the address of the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses. Hamilton Police are asking for assistance from the public in the identification of the suspect, who is described as a male with light skin. Investigators are asking for the public to check home or business video surveillance systems during the above dates and times in efforts to identify the suspect.

On Thursday (Aug. 4) at 10:30 p.m., the male suspect carrying a black reusable bag with white lettering was captured on video on the hall’s security camera. The suspect spray-painted the exterior, which HPS describes as “caus(ing) mischief.” The suspect then set fire to an exterior doorway at the rear of the building, and fled on foot.

The following night, Friday, Aug. 5, officers from HPS responded to a second fire at the same location. Investigation revealed the suspect on video at around 9:30 p.m., setting fire to the front entrance of the building. The suspect, who was carrying a yellow shopping bag with black lettering, gain fled on foot.

The suspect is described as:

• Male
• Light skin
• Medium Height and weight
• Clean shaven
• Wearing a black hooded sweatshirt with a Hockey Canada emblem
• Dark pants
• Dark shoes

Anyone who has information that might assist HPS with the investigation into these crimes, or has questions regarding to the investigation may coontact acting Det.-Sgt. George Gallant (905-540-5085) or Det.-Const. Shaun Fennessy ( 905-540-3819).

Information may be provided anonymously through Crime Stoppers of Hamilton (1-800-222-8477; online at crimestoppershamilton.com).