Agassiz thrift store set on fire, suspect arrested

AGASSIZ — Agassiz RCMP announced Tuesday (Apr. 11) they have arrested a suspect in connection with a case of arson that happened at the Agassiz Harrison Community Service Thrift Store on Cheam Avenue back in March.

According to a news release from Agassiz RCMP Sgt. Mike Sargent, Agassiz Fire and Agassiz RCMP responded to a report of a structure fire at 7:28 a.m. on Thursday, March 23 at 6910 Cheam Avenue. Mounties and Agassiz RCMP determined that the fire had been deliberately set.

Further investigation identified a suspect who was located and arrested earlier this month in April. That unidentified suspect is now facing arson-related charges.

“This incident could have had a very unfortunate outcome if not for the quick response of the Agassiz Fire Department who minimized the overall damage,” Sgt. Mike Sargent said. “Many people in the local communities rely on the Thrift Store and also their contributions to important community programs.”