Man charged with arson after fiery explosion that destroyed NE Calgary townhomes

A man has been charged with arson after an explosion and fire that destroyed a group of townhomes in northeast Calgary over the weekend.

Emergency crews were called to Las Americas Villas in Monterey Park around 11 p.m. Saturday for reports of a fire.

Investigators believe an explosion in one of the townhomes caused the blaze that spread to neighbouring homes.

The fire destroyed four residences and sent six people to hospital. The Calgary Fire Department (CFD) has said all the residents in the impacted homes will be displaced.


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CFD, alongside Calgary police arson investigators, now believe a man intentionally started a fire inside his home. The man allegedly used an accelerant which led to the explosion.

Calgary resident Gavin Peter Robinson, 40, has been charged with arson and disregard for human life.

He is expected to appear in a Calgary courtroom on Wednesday.

The investigation is ongoing and CPS say they expect further charges to be laid.

Anyone with information is urged to contact police at 403-266-1234, or CrimeStoppers anonymously.

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