Calgary police have laid arson charges against a local man in connection with two separate fires that damaged three popular restaurants in the city's Beltline neighbourhood last fall.
Charges Laid Following Investigation
Aldin Crowchild, 34, of Calgary, was arrested on Saturday, December 21, 2025. He now faces two counts of arson and two counts of breaching a probation order. The Calgary Police Service (CPS) confirmed the arrest, stating their investigation determined the two fire incidents were connected and were intentionally set.
"While the fires appear to be targeted, a motive remains unknown," CPS said in a statement. Crowchild remains in custody and is scheduled for a court appearance on January 8, 2026.
Timeline of the Damaging Fires
The first fire occurred in the early morning hours of November 4, 2025. Calgary firefighters were called to the 700 block of 10 Avenue S.W. around 1:30 a.m. after a blaze ignited in the rear alley of Bridgette Bar. The structure fire caused extensive damage, with initial estimates pegging the loss at approximately $300,000. Despite the significant damage, the restaurant has since managed to reopen its doors to the public.
The second incident took place more than a month later, on December 17, 2025. At around 5 a.m., another fire was reported in a back alley entrance of a building housing multiple businesses. This fire damaged two adjacent establishments: Salt & Brick and Greta Bar.
Fire crews responded quickly and contained the flames. However, Charlie’s, a speakeasy-style bar located at the back of the Salt & Brick premises, sustained major damage in the incident.
Community and Business Impact
The series of fires sent shockwaves through Calgary's vibrant Beltline district, an area known for its dense concentration of restaurants, bars, and nightlife. The targeting of multiple local businesses in a short timeframe raised significant concerns among owners and residents.
The quick reopening of Bridgette Bar demonstrates the resilience of local business owners, but the financial and emotional toll of such events is considerable. The investigation by both the Calgary Fire Department and the Calgary Police Service was crucial in linking the events and identifying a suspect.
Authorities have not released further details on what evidence connected the fires or led to Crowchild's arrest. The case highlights the serious consequences of arson, which puts lives, livelihoods, and community infrastructure at risk.
