UPDATED MEDIA RELEASE:

Waterloo Regional Police have laid charges in connection to an arson in Kitchener.

On February 13, 2026, police began an investigation after a fire occurred during the early morning hours in the parking garage of a residential building in the area of York Street and Union Boulevard.

Several motor vehicles and portions of the building's structure were damaged.

On February 25, 2025, members of WRPS' General Investigations Unit arrested a male in connection to this incident.

A 32-year-old male has been charged with 12 criminal offences, including:

• Possession Break In Instruments (two counts)
• Disguise with Intent (two counts)
• Probation order: non-compliance (two counts)
• Failure To Comply with Release Order (two counts)
• Break, Enter a place - commit indictable offence

• Break, Enter a place - with intent to commit indictable offence 

• Arson - Disregard for Human Life CC 

• Arson - Damage to Property 

The accused remains in police custody for a bail hearing.

The cost of the arson-related damages is estimated to be in the millions of dollars.
 

PREVIOUS MEDIA RELEASE:

Waterloo Regional Police are continuing to investigate a suspicious fire in Kitchener.

On February 13, 2026, police began an investigation after a fire occurred during the early morning hours in the parking garage of a residential building in the area of York Street and Union Boulevard.

Several motor vehicles and portions of the building's structure were damaged.

Investigators would like to identify and speak with the individual pictured in connection to this incident.

[photo removed; individual identified]

Anyone with information is asked to contact investigators at 519-570-9777, extension 4496. Anonymous information can be provided to Crime Stoppers at 1‑800‑222‑8477 or online at www.waterloocrimestoppers.com.
 

PREVIOUS MEDIA RELEASE:

The Waterloo Regional Police Service is investigating a suspicious fire that occurred in the early morning hours of February 13, 2026, at a residential building in the area of York Street and Union Boulevard in Kitchener.

An unknown suspect is believed to have intentionally ignited the fire in the parking garage, resulting in significant damage to multiple motor vehicles and portions of the building’s structure. All residents have been safely relocated while repairs and safety assessments are conducted.

WRPS’ General Investigations Unit is continuing to investigate. 

Anyone with information, or who may have witnessed suspicious activity in the area between 11 p.m. on February 12, 2026, and 2 a.m. on February 13, 2026, is asked to contact investigators at 519-570-9777, extension 4496. Anonymous information can be provided to Crime Stoppers at 1‑800‑222‑8477 or online at www.waterloocrimestoppers.com.