Hamilton man charged with arson after fire at Landsdale home injures firefighter

Hamilton police have charged a 35-year-old man with arson after a fire in a Landsdale neighbourhood Friday morning left one firefighter injured.

Shortly after 4:40 a.m., Hamilton Fire responded to a blaze on St. Matthews Avenue near Barton Street East.

Officers say several reports mentioned explosions and heavy smoke coming from a third-floor attic apartment in the area.

Crews worked quickly to bring the fire under control while protecting nearby homes from any spreading flames.

They say no occupants were found inside the home but one firefighter sustained injuries during operations and received first aid at the scene. No other injuries were reported.

Crews say one occupant of the building has been provided support from the Canadian Red Cross for accommodations.

Police say the fire is being treated as suspicious and as part of the investigation detectives arrested and charged a man with disregard for human life, arson related to damages to property, and possessing incendiary materials.

Officers have applied for a search warrant to examine the residence and gather evidence related to the offences.

Investigators say the damage to the property is estimated at around $300,000.

Detectives are not looking for any additional suspects at this time, and say based on gathered evidence that the fire was an isolated incident, not connected to any other recent fires.

They say the investigation is ongoing.

Anyone with information is asked to contact police.

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