A local woman has been charged in connection with a Blenheim house fire that left the residents displaced.
Chatham-Kent Fire and Rescue responded to the fire at the multi-dwelling home at 83 Talbot Street East on Friday shortly before 7:30 a.m.
All of the occupants who were in the home when the fire started were able to get out safely. No injuries were reported. The residents have been displaced as a result of the fire.
While fire crews worked to extinguish the blaze, the Chatham-Kent Police Service said officers began an investigation. Almost immediately, the circumstances surrounding the fire were believed to be suspicious, and a suspect was identified as a 42-year-old Blenheim woman.
The accused was arrested and is now charged with arson with disregard for human life. She was held in custody prior to a court appearance on Monday.
Damage to the home is estimated at around $500,000.
The Major Crime Unit is working with the Ontario Fire Marshal’s Office and Chatham-Kent Fire and Rescue as an investigation continues.
Anyone with information regarding this incident is asked to contact Detective Constable Ashwin Roy at ashwinr@chatham-kent.ca or 519-436-6600 ext. 80423. Those who wish to remain anonymously call contact Chatham-Kent Crime Stoppers at ckcrime@chatham-kent.ca or 1-888-222-8477.
