Winnipeg, Manitoba – A Winnipeg man was taken into custody Friday after allegedly setting two separate fires, including one that destroyed his North End residence and another that caused significant damage to a downtown office building.
According to Winnipeg Police, 49-year-old Jonathan Roger Hein presented himself at police headquarters around 4:50 p.m. Friday, where he allegedly admitted to starting both blazes earlier in the afternoon.
Investigators said the first incident occurred around 2:42 p.m. in the 200 block of Pritchard Avenue. Hein allegedly poured gasoline throughout his home before setting it ablaze, triggering an explosion that blew him outside the property. The fire spread to a neighboring residence, prompting evacuations. No injuries were reported, though the Pritchard Avenue home was declared a total loss.
Roughly 30 minutes later, police allege Hein went to a convenience store, purchased more gasoline, and proceeded to the 300 block of Donald Street. At 4:13 p.m., he allegedly poured fuel inside an office building’s lobby and ignited it. Employees inside the building evacuated, but no one was hurt. The lobby sustained major damage, police said.
By 4:36 p.m., Hein walked to Winnipeg Police Headquarters and surrendered. The Major Crimes Unit has taken over the investigation.
Hein faces four charges, including two counts of arson with disregard for human life and two counts of arson causing damage to property. He remained in custody as of Saturday and is not considered a suspect in any other arson cases.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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