Suspect arrested in Yonge & Gould building arson known to police

Police have arrested a 53-year-old man in connection to the arson that occurred at a heritage building at Yonge and Gould streets on Jan. 3, 2011.

Police have charged Stewart Poirier, 53, of Toronto, with nine charges, in connection with two arson investigations, including the one that destroyed the building on Yonge Street.

It took fire crews hours to bring the blaze under control. The building, which housed stores as well as the popular restaurant Salad King, was beyond saving.

Poirier is also being investigated in another fire that happened last Thursday at 123 Sackville Street.

Toronto police told CityNews Channel, Poirier was arrested last Friday on an unrelated matter and then investigated for the fires.

“A subsequent investigation, a number of witness statements, as you know, video evidence was seized at the time, and we have other information and other evidence has subsequently come forward,” said police

Police have charged him with:

1. two counts of Arson: Damage to Property
2. two counts of Arson: Disregard for Human Life
3. two counts of Mischief Endangering Life
4. Attempted Murder
5. two counts of Fail to Comply with Probation

He’s schedule to appear in court Thursday morning.

Police continue to investigate and say Poirier may face more charges.

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