Two fires in Centretown, a block apart, being investigated as arsons
Posted May 20, 2026 01:51:04 PM.
Last Updated May 20, 2026 01:53:55 PM.
Two fires in Ottawa’s Centretown neighbourhood were deemed suspicious by firefighters, prompting Ottawa police to launch arson investigations.
Crews were called to the 300 block of Lyon Street North around 3:39 a.m. on May 16 from someone who said that a deck was on fire. When firefighters arrived, they found a multi-unit residential building where they could see recyclable objects on fire on the deck.
Firefighters quickly called in additional resources before bringing a hose inside the building, while another team searched the units for people. After two full searches, no one was found inside.
The flames were extinguished by 4:01 a.m. and contained to the deck before it could spread.
However, less than an hour later, firefighters were called again to the same area.
At 4:52 a.m. they got a report that “there was a lot of smoke coming from the intersection” within the 400 block of Somerset Street West — about 350 metres from the earlier fire.
When they arrived at the multi-unit home, they found another porch on fire.
Bringing a hose inside the building, quickly dousing the flames, crews made sure everyone was out and cleared the area by 5:06 a.m.
In both instances, a fire investigator went to the scene and determined the circumstances were suspicious.
Ottawa police’s arson unit confirmed to CityNews that it is investigating the two incidents.
Anyone with information is asked to contact investigators at 613-236-1222, extension 2202.
