A 27-year-old individual has been convicted of arson following a deliberately set residential fire in Gananoque that forced occupants to flee for their lives. Gananoque Police Service and Gananoque Fire Service responded to a 9-1-1 call on September 14, 2024, reporting the fire at a local residence.
Investigators determined the accused had been involved in a dispute with occupants of the home, causing damage inside before leaving the property. The individual continued to act aggressively outside, then returned to the residence, where a fire was intentionally set in the laundry room. The blaze spread rapidly throughout the home, forcing residents to escape. No injuries were reported, but the home sustained significant damage.
Police located and arrested the accused a short time later. During the investigation, the individual provided a full confession, admitting the fire was started using a gasoline-filled jerry can.
The accused was charged with multiple offences, including Arson – Disregard for Human Life. In January 2026, after serving 479 days in pre-sentence custody, the Ontario Court of Justice imposed a sentence of 376 days in jail, three years’ probation, a lifetime weapons prohibition, and $336,000 in restitution.
(By: Tim Baltz)
