An Edmonton man has been charged in connection with a series of suspicious fires that occurred at infill construction sites and homes in late 2025. The fires, which took place in October and November, resulted in the destruction of eight properties, including five under construction, and caused an estimated $8 million in damages.
Details of the Fires
The fires affected multiple neighbourhoods in Edmonton's southside, including Belgravia, King Edward Park, Strathcona, and Glenora. One notable incident occurred around midnight on Oct. 26, 2025, when a mid-block eight-plex under construction was destroyed on 77 Avenue near 116 Street in Belgravia. The fire also destroyed a neighbouring home and damaged two others.
Police began investigating allegations of arson after the series of fires, which spread rapidly in residential areas. Fortunately, no serious injuries were reported.
Charges Laid
Edmonton police announced on June 3, 2026, that charges were laid on May 27 against Peter Jones, 40. He faces 27 criminal charges, including:
- Five counts of arson with disregard for human life
- Five counts of break and enter to commit arson
- Five counts of possession of property obtained by crime
- Four counts of trafficking in property obtained by crime
Jones was already in custody since Nov. 13, 2025, for a parole violation, and his parole was subsequently revoked. He remains behind bars.
Investigation and Motive
Insp. Jonathan Morrison emphasized the danger of arson in residential areas, stating, “Arson causes serious risk, particularly in residential areas, where fires can spread rapidly and place both responding personnel and the public in danger.” The Edmonton Police Service has a specialized team that works with Edmonton Fire Rescue Services to determine the cause of suspicious fires.
No motive for the alleged arsons has been released. Police are urging anyone with information to contact them at 780-423-4567 or submit tips anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or online at www.p3tips.com.
The investigation continues, and authorities are not certain if all the fires are related. The charges mark a significant step in holding the suspect accountable for the extensive damage and risk caused to the community.
