At 6:57 AM on Wednesday September 24th 2014 Niagara Regional Police and Welland Fire Services responded to a reported explosion and subsequent fire at an address on Evan Street in Welland.
Fire Services were able to quickly bring the fire under control, but the residence suffered significant fire and water damage. Fortunately neither residents nor family pets residing at the address were hurt.
The cause of the fire is suspicious in origin, and police are looking for anyone who may have witnessed the event, or events immediately before or after the fire. Security footage seized by police suggests that a van observed leaving the scene and travelling along River Road may be connected to the incident.
The vehicle is described as a gold van with a rear swing up cargo door.
Anyone having any information about the incident or vehicle is asked to contact Detective Sergeant Manney at 905 688-4111 ext 3355 or Detective Decker at ext 3344, or alternatively to report the information to Crime Stoppers.