Smoke rising from the back of a vacant home in the 4000 block of Borden Street brought police and fire crews out yesterday, January 26th, at 1pm.   The smoke was first spotted by a pedestrian walking by.  She called 9-1-1.  At the same time, workers from the nearby Municipal Yard, came up with a fire extinguisher to assist.               

Saanich Fire crews put the fire out quickly, getting to it before it spread beyond the confines of a basement room.  The majority of damage was due to smoke.  No one was inside the house at the time.

One man, found in the immediate area, was initially arrested.  After police conducted a more thorough investigation though, his involvement with the fire was ruled out.

At this time, police are working closely with fire inspectors to determine the fire’s cause.  It is believed to be suspicious though and anyone with information is asked to call the Saanich Police at 250-475-4321.

(10-2034)