Suspected arsonist arrested after 7 fires intentionally set in Nanaimo

Nanaimo RCMP have arrested a 54-year-old man who they believe set seven fires this morning.

Constable Gary O’Brien says the spree started around 6:30am, when a tree at the Days Inn on Nichol St was set ablaze.

O’Brien says there was also a fire set outside an abandoned house on Finlayson Street.

At one point, the man walked into a business at 55 Old Victoria Rd and threatened employees with a knife.

O’Brien says RCMP arrested him just before 10:00am.

O’Brien says the man is being held in custody until his court appearance on Friday.