Nanaimo RCMP are asking for help identifying a man seen in a surveillance video setting a bag of garbage on fire in an alleyway behind 100 Nicol St. on Saturday morning.
Neighbouring residents saw the smoke and used a garden hose to extinguish the fire before it could spread.
City of Nanaimo Fire crews responded to ensure the fire was completely out.
The incident, which occurred about 9:30 a.m. on Saturday, July 27, was captured on a nearby surveillance camera.
A man is seen walking into the alleyway then setting a bag of garbage on fire that was next to a fence. The man then walks away.
The suspect is a white man who was somewhat dishevelled and is of medium height, has a slim build, and was wearing a brown long-sleeve shirt and dark pants, police said.
“If not for the quick action of neighbours, this fire could have easily spread and caused significant damage,” said Reserve Const. Gary O’Brien.
Anyone with information about the incident is asked to contact the Nanaimo RCMP non-emergency line at 250-754-2345.
