Editor's note: Adds the name of the accused
Ian J. Peregoodoff, 43, from Grand Forks is in custody after an arson attempt on the Midway RCMP detachment.
According to the RCMP, on June 18 at 12:10 a.m., one of its officers was working inside the Midway detachment office, heard a loud noise and saw a bright flash when something appeared to have hit the office window.
Looking outside, the officer reportedly saw Peregoodoff pick up a flaming bottle, that is believed to be the item initially tossed at the detachment.
The suspect also allegedly threw the flaming bottle at the back of a police vehicle that was unoccupied in front of the detachment. The flaming bottle broke and its contents spilled onto the police truck, setting the surface of the vehicle on fire.
“The constable quickly exited the building, confronted the suspect before the suspect ran to a nearby vehicle, that was left running, and fled the scene. The officer was able to get the licence plate number as the vehicle was fleeing and called for assistance to extinguish the fire,” explained Grand Forks RCMP Staff Sgt. Jim Harrison.
“Unfortunately the officer’s were initially unable to locate the suspect or vehicle.”
Further investigation was conducted and at approximately at 7:20 a.m., the individual, who is believed to be responsible for the attempted arson, was arrested.
“Due to the quick actions of the Midway RCMP officers, there was only minor damage to the detachment building and the police vehicle,” said Harrison. “However, should the mixed cocktail had gone through the window and into the detachment office, a significant fire could have quickly started and resulted in potential injuries to the officers, as well as major damage and loss of the police damage.”
The investigation is still underway.